The Country Food Similarity Index is a statistically-based attempt to quantify how similar the food in one country is relative to another. By comparing the weight of raw food ingredients used in each country, a score is assigned that reflects the degree of similarity between the respective countries. The methodology is exactly the same for each country studied.
The Most Similar Cuisines to Sri Lankan Food
The countries with the most similar food to Sri Lanka tend to have tropical climates. Their hot and humid conditions are well suited for rice cultivation. These countries also have a lot of coastline, so many of their people live in close proximity to the ocean. Four of the five border the Indian Ocean.
- Indonesia and Sri Lanka were once colonized by the Dutch. The spice trade played a significant role in shaping the cuisines of both countries, facilitating significant cultural exchange. Rice, coconut, chili peppers, various tropical fruits, cloves and cinnamon are commonly used in these countries. Curries play a significant role in the culinary traditions of both nations as well.
- Malaysia has a large immigrant population from South Asia. More than 1 million Tamils live there. Sri Lankan and Malaysian cuisines heavily feature rice as a staple. Flatbreads, such as roti, are also popular in both countries. In addition, saltwater fish are commonly eaten in these nations too.
- Philippines is another nation on this list in Southeast Asia. Coconut is a key ingredient in both cuisines. They often feature coconut milk or grated coconut for richness and flavor. These countries also have variations of sticky rice preparations. Examples include kakanin in the Philippines and kiribath in Sri Lanka.
- Thailand and Sri Lanka are both predominately Buddhist countries. Rice is often served alongside various curries and side dishes in these nations. However, the types of curries they typical serve are somewhat different. Both cuisines are known for their use of a wide variety of spices and herbs.
- India is located to the north of Sri Lanka. A majority of Sri Lanka’s population descended from Northern India, so these nations have deep demographic and cultural ties. The liberal use of spices and coconut milk is reminiscent of Indian cooking. Rice and curry are common ingredients in both their diets. However, Sri Lankan cuisine often has unique ingredients like goraka and curry leaves, giving it a distinct character.
Related: The 10 Most Similar Countries to Sri Lanka
The Least Similar Cuisines to Sri Lankan Food
All five countries with the least similar food to Sri Lanka are located in Africa. Four of the five are located between Sub-Saharan Africa and the Sahel. In addition, they all are landlocked. Rice is far less commonly eaten in these countries than in Sri Lanka.
- Chad is a predominately Muslim country in the middle of Africa. Sorghum and millet are the two most commonly consumed grains there. These crops are well adapted to the Sahel’s climate. Beef and lamb are their most popular meats, unlike in Sri Lanka.
- South Sudan is another country that borders Sudan. Cassava and sorghum are the staple foods in South Sudan. South Sudanese cuisine tends to be more rustic, while Sri Lankan cuisine is known for its delicate use of fresh herbs, spices, and vegetables.
- Central African Republic is a former French colony that is located in the middle of Africa. Cassava and yam are two of the most commonly eaten staple ingredients in the country. These starches are used to create a diverse range of dishes.
- Burundi is yet another French-speaking African country on this list. It is located in the Great Lakes region of Africa, so freshwater fish are the country’s biggest source of meat. Its diet is in large part based on cassava, sweet potatoes, plantains, and bananas.
- Burkina Faso‘s common staple crops include millet, sorghum, maize, and yams, while rice is more commonly eaten in Sri Lanka. Sauces often accompany meals in Burkina Faso, and ingredients like baobab leaves, locust beans, and shea butter add flavor.
Related: The 10 Least Similar Countries to Sri Lanka
Full Food Similarity Ranking of Countries and Territories
Sri Lanka’s Most Common Food Ingredients
Protein: Saltwater Fish, Chicken
Fruit: Coconut, Banana
Vegetable: Pumpkin, Carrot
Starch: Rice, Wheat
Primarily based on 2020 data from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the U.N.
