Lunu Miris Paalu Paan

Lunu Miris Paalu Paan is a traditional Sri Lankan bread, often enjoyed as a beloved breakfast staple. This dish is a harmonious blend of two significant components—Lunu Miris, a spicy hot chili paste, and Paalu Paan, a soft, moist bread made with coconut milk. Known for its robust flavors and satisfying texture, this recipe is a cherished part of Sri Lankan culinary heritage.

History of Lunu Miris Paalu Paan

The origins of Lunu Miris can be traced back to Sri Lanka’s long-standing history of spice trading, with chili being a popular export. Lunu Miris, literally meaning “salt chili” in Sinhalese, became a staple condiment in nearly every household. Paalu Paan, prepared with coconut milk, showcases the island’s abundance of coconuts. Over time, combining these two elements—spicy Lunu Miris and creamy Paalu Paan—created a perfect balance of heat and mellow sweetness, symbolizing the culinary diversity of Sri Lanka.

Ingredients

• Rice flour - 2 cups
• Wheat flour - 1 cup
• Coconut milk - 1 cup
• Sugar - 2 tablespoons
• Yeast - 1 teaspoon
• Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
• Water lukewarm - 1/2 cup
• Red chilies dried - 10-15
• Shallots - 5-6
• Lime juice - 2 tablespoons
• Salt (for Lunu Miris) - 1 teaspoon
• Maldive fish flakes - 2 tablespoons
• Coconut oil - 1 tablespoon

Preparation

Preparing the Bread (Paalu Paan)

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the rice flour and wheat flour together.
2. In a separate bowl, dissolve the sugar and yeast in lukewarm water. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
3. Mix the yeast solution into the flour mixture, followed by adding salt and coconut milk, stirring until a smooth, sticky dough forms.
4. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and leave it in a warm place to rise for about 1-2 hours or until it doubles in size.

Preparing Lunu Miris

1. Soak the red chilies in warm water for 10 minutes to soften them.
2. In a mortar and pestle, grind the soaked chilies with salt, shallots, and maldive fish flakes to form a smooth paste.
3. Add lime juice and coconut oil to the paste and mix well. Adjust salt and lime juice to taste if necessary.

Cooking Process

Cooking the Paalu Paan

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
2. Line a baking pan with parchment paper. Pour the batter into the pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
3. Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the top turns a golden brown and a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean. Use a cooking timer to keep track.
4. Once baked, remove from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack.

How to Enjoy Lunu Miris Paalu Paan

Cut a slice of the freshly baked Paalu Paan and generously spread Lunu Miris over it. The contrast between the soft, sweet bread and the fiery, tangy Lunu Miris makes each bite delightfully memorable. Pair it with a cup of coconut milk tea or enjoy alongside a traditional Sri Lankan meal.

Whether eaten as a breakfast treat or a spicy snack, Lunu Miris Paalu Paan offers a delicious gateway into the aromatic world of Sri Lankan cuisine, perfectly capturing the island’s unique spice profile.