Best 30-Minute Vegan Sri Lankan Recipes

These 30-minute vegan Sri Lankan recipes bring the bold, vibrant flavours of this beautiful cuisine to your kitchen. With simple ingredients and quick cooking methods, you can enjoy warm, aromatic dishes in just half an hour.

Sri Lankan cuisine is bold, fragrant, and full of colour. It blends warm spices, creamy coconut, and fresh vegetables into dishes that feel comforting and nourishing.

When made vegan, these meals stay rich and satisfying while becoming lighter and easier to prepare. Each recipe highlights the balance of spice, freshness, and subtle heat that Sri Lankan food is known for — all in a quick, accessible way that fits busy days.

Whether you are exploring Sri Lankan flavours for the first time or already love its vibrant warmth, this collection offers meals that are wholesome, aromatic, and full of plant-based goodness.

Best 30-Minute Vegan Sri Lankan Recipes

Recipe #1 — Spiced Sri Lankan-inspired Vegetable Broth With Coconut Milk (Kola Kenda)

This warm and soothing Sri Lankan-inspired vegetable broth with coconut milk is fragrant, creamy, and full of gentle spice. The light coconut base blends beautifully with fresh greens and aromatics, creating a nourishing soup that feels both comforting and invigorating. It comes together quickly, making it perfect for a calming meal.

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 20 minutes | Total time: 30 minutes | Servings: 2

Ingredients

• Refined coconut oil: 1 tablespoon
• Onion: 1 small, chopped
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
• Ginger: 1-inch piece, minced
• Spinach: 2 cups, packed (or mixed greens)
• Coconut milk: 1 cup
• Vegetable broth: 3 cups
• Turmeric powder: ½ teaspoon
• Cumin powder: ½ teaspoon
• Celtic sea salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• Lime wedges for serving

Method

1. Heat the refined coconut oil in a pot over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger. Cook until softened and aromatic.
2. Stir in the turmeric and cumin and cook for 30 seconds.
3. Add the spinach and let it wilt slightly.
4. Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth. Stir well.
5. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 10–12 minutes.
6. Season with Celtic sea salt and black pepper.
7. Serve the Sri Lankan-inspired vegetable broth with coconut milk dish with lime wedges for brightness.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: ≈220
• Protein: 4 g
• Fibre: 3 g
• Fat: 17 g
• Carbohydrates: 12 g

Health Benefits

This Sri Lankan-inspired vegetable broth offers antioxidants from the spices and hydration from the fresh greens. The coconut milk adds healthy fats that support energy and nourish the body, making the soup both light and satisfying.

You can learn more about the benefits of coconut milk.
Explore 13 healthy vegan soup recipes.

Recipe #2 — Sri Lankan-Inspired Coconut Lentil Soup (Parippu Rasam)

This gentle Sri Lankan-inspired coconut lentil soup is creamy, aromatic, and full of comforting warmth. The red lentils cook quickly in a lightly spiced coconut broth, creating a smooth and satisfying soup. It is simple to prepare and perfect for a cozy plant-based meal.

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 20 minutes | Total time: 30 minutes | Servings: 2

Ingredients

• Refined coconut oil: 1 tablespoon
• Onion: 1 small, finely chopped
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
• Ginger: 1-inch piece, grated
• Red lentils: ¾ cup, rinsed
• Coconut milk: 1 cup
• Vegetable broth: 3 cups
• Turmeric powder: ½ teaspoon
• Cumin powder: ½ teaspoon
• Curry leaves: 6–8, optional
• Lime juice: 1 tablespoon
• Celtic sea salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro: 2 tablespoons, chopped for garnish

Method

1. Heat the refined coconut oil in a pot over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger. Cook until softened and fragrant.
2. Stir in the turmeric and cumin and cook for 30 seconds to release their aroma.
3. Add the red lentils, coconut milk, vegetable broth, and curry leaves if using. Stir well.
4. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 15–18 minutes, or until the lentils are soft and the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Season with Celtic sea salt, black pepper, and lime juice.
6. Remove the curry leaves if used.
7. Garnish the Sri Lankan-inspired coconut lentil soup with fresh cilantro before serving.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: ≈320
• Protein: 13 g
• Fibre: 7 g
• Fat: 18 g
• Carbohydrates: 28 g

Health Benefits

This soup provides plant-based protein and fibre from red lentils, helping support steady energy and fullness. The coconut milk and spices add healthy fats and antioxidants that bring warmth and balance to the meal.

You can learn more about the benefits of lentils.
Explore our best low-carb vegan soup recipes for every season.

Recipe #3 — Sri Lankan Cucumber Salad (Elabatu Sambola)

This refreshing Sri Lankan cucumber salad is crisp, cool, and full of gentle spice. The cucumber absorbs the tangy lime dressing while the onions and chilli add brightness. It is quick to prepare and makes a light, flavourful side dish.

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 0 minutes | Total time: 10 minutes | Servings: 2

Ingredients

• Cucumber: 1 cup, thinly sliced
• Red onion: ¼ cup, thinly sliced
• Tomato: ½ cup, chopped
• Fresh cilantro: ¼ cup, chopped
• Lime juice: 1 tablespoon
• Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
• Chilli flakes: a pinch
• Celtic sea salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste

Method

1. Place the cucumber, red onion, tomato, and cilantro in a mixing bowl.
2. Add the lime juice, olive oil, chilli flakes, Celtic sea salt, and black pepper.
3. Toss gently until the ingredients are evenly coated.
4. Serve the Sri Lankan cucumber salad immediately for the freshest flavour.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: ≈80
• Protein: 2 g
• Fibre: 2 g
• Fat: 5 g
• Carbohydrates: 9 g

Health Benefits

This salad provides hydration and vitamins from fresh cucumber and tomato. The lime juice and chilli add antioxidants and a refreshing flavour, making the dish light and energizing.

You can learn more about the benefits of cucumbers.
Explore our amazing vegan salad recipes.

Recipe #4 — Sri Lankan Coconut Sambol (Pol Sambol)

This classic Sri Lankan coconut sambol side dish is fresh, vibrant, and full of bold flavour. The shredded coconut blends with chilli, lime, and aromatics to create a bright and zesty accompaniment. It comes together quickly and adds a burst of freshness to any meal.

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 0 minutes | Total time: 10 minutes | Servings: 2

Ingredients

• Shredded coconut (unsweetened): 1 cup
• Red onion: ¼ cup, finely chopped
• Red chilli: 1 small, finely chopped
• Lime juice: 2 tablespoons
• Tomato: ¼ cup, finely chopped
• Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
• Celtic sea salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• Cilantro: 2 tablespoons, chopped

Method

1. Place the shredded coconut in a bowl.
2. Add the red onion, red chilli, tomato, and cilantro.
3. Pour in the lime juice and olive oil.
4. Season with Celtic sea salt and black pepper.
5. Mix well until everything is thoroughly combined.
6. Serve the Sri Lankan coconut sambol fresh as a side dish or topping.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: ≈190
• Protein: 2 g
• Fibre: 4 g
• Fat: 17 g
• Carbohydrates: 8 g

Health Benefits

Pol sambol offers healthy fats from coconuts along with antioxidants from chilli, lime, and fresh herbs. It adds refreshing brightness to meals while providing nourishing plant-based ingredients.

You can learn more about the benefits of coconut.
Explore our delicious coconut-crusted vegan shrimp recipes.

Recipe #5 — Sri Lankan Tempered Potatoes (Ala Thel Dala)

These Sri Lankan tempered potatoes are warmly spiced, aromatic, and full of comforting flavour. The potatoes are sautéed with curry leaves, mustard seeds, and gentle spices, creating a simple side dish that is vibrant and satisfying. It cooks quickly and pairs well with curries and rice.

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 15 minutes | Total time: 25 minutes | Servings: 2

Ingredients

• Avocado oil: 1 tablespoon
• Potatoes: 2 medium, diced
• Onion: 1 small, sliced
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
• Mustard seeds: ½ teaspoon
• Curry leaves: 6–8, optional
• Turmeric powder: ½ teaspoon
• Black pepper: ½ teaspoon
• Chilli flakes: ½ teaspoon
• Celtic sea salt to taste
• Lime juice: 1 tablespoon
• Fresh cilantro: 2 tablespoons, chopped

Method

1. Heat the avocado oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add the mustard seeds and curry leaves. Let them sizzle for a few seconds.
3. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened.
4. Stir in the potatoes, turmeric, black pepper, and chilli flakes.
5. Cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring often, until the potatoes are tender and lightly golden.
6. Season with Celtic sea salt and add lime juice.
7. Top the Sri Lankan tempered potatoes with cilantro before serving.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: ≈240
• Protein: 4 g
• Fibre: 4 g
• Fat: 8 g
• Carbohydrates: 38 g

Health Benefits

This dish offers steady energy from potatoes and antioxidants from turmeric and mustard seeds. The spices help support digestion and bring warmth to the meal without being heavy.

You can learn more about the benefits of potatoes.
Explore our delicious vegan recipes using potatoes.

Recipe #6 — Sri Lankan-Inspired Stir-Fried Devilled Mushrooms (vegan version)

This quick Sri Lankan-inspired stir-fried devilled mushrooms dish is spicy, tangy, and full of bold flavour. The mushrooms absorb the seasoning beautifully, creating a tender yet slightly crisp texture. It is a vibrant side dish that brings heat, colour, and brightness to any meal.

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 10 minutes | Total time: 20 minutes | Servings: 2

Ingredients

• Avocado oil: 1 tablespoon
• Mushrooms: 3 cups, sliced (button, cremini, or oyster)
• Red onion: ½ cup, sliced
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
• Red bell pepper: ½ cup, sliced
• Soy sauce: 1 tablespoon
• Tomato paste: 1 tablespoon
• Maple syrup: 1 teaspoon
• Chilli flakes: ½ teaspoon
• Black pepper: ½ teaspoon
• Lime juice: 1 tablespoon
• Celtic sea salt to taste
• Green onion: 1 stalk, sliced, for topping

Method

1. Heat the avocado oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add the mushrooms and cook for 4–5 minutes until lightly browned.
3. Stir in the red onion, garlic, and red bell pepper. Cook for 2 minutes.
4. Add the soy sauce, tomato paste, maple syrup, chilli flakes, and black pepper.
5. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until the sauce coats the mushrooms.
6. Season with Celtic sea salt and add lime juice for brightness.
7. Top the Sri Lankan-inspired stir-fried devilled mushrooms dish with green onions before serving.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: ≈160
• Protein: 5 g
• Fibre: 3 g
• Fat: 8 g
• Carbohydrates: 18 g

Health Benefits

Mushrooms provide antioxidants, minerals, and plant-based nutrients that support immune health. The spices and lime add vibrant flavour and help energize the dish without heaviness.

You can learn more about the benefits of mushrooms.
Explore our 6 delicious vegan oyster mushroom recipes.

Recipe #7 — Sri Lankan Coconut Vegetable Curry (Kiri Hodi with Vegetables)

This gentle Sri Lankan coconut vegetable curry is creamy, aromatic, and full of colourful vegetables. The coconut milk creates a silky base while the spices add warmth and depth. It is nourishing, light, and comes together quickly for a comforting plant-based meal.

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 20 minutes | Total time: 30 minutes | Servings: 2

Ingredients

• Refined coconut oil: 1 tablespoon
• Onion: 1 small, chopped
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
• Ginger: 1-inch piece, minced
• Carrots: ½ cup, sliced
• Green beans: 1 cup, cut into pieces
• Cauliflower: 1 cup, small florets
• Coconut milk: 1 cup
• Vegetable broth: 1 cup
• Turmeric powder: ½ teaspoon
• Curry powder: 1 teaspoon
• Celtic sea salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• Lime juice: 1 tablespoon
• Fresh cilantro: 2 tablespoons, chopped

Method

1. Heat the refined coconut oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger. Cook until fragrant.
3. Stir in the carrots, green beans, and cauliflower. Cook for 2–3 minutes.
4. Add the turmeric, curry powder, Celtic sea salt, and black pepper.
5. Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
6. Cook for 12–15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
7. Stir in the lime juice.
8. Top the Sri Lankan coconut vegetable curry with fresh cilantro before serving.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: ≈280
• Protein: 6 g
• Fibre: 6 g
• Fat: 18 g
• Carbohydrates: 24 g

Health Benefits

This dish provides vitamins and fibre from a mix of vegetables along with healthy fats from coconut milk. The warm spices help support digestion and bring gentle comfort to the meal.

You can learn more about the health benefits of cauliflower.
Explore our best vegan cauliflower wings recipes.

Recipe #8 — Creamy Sri Lankan Pumpkin Curry (Wattakka Curry)

This creamy Sri Lankan pumpkin curry is creamy, gently spiced, and naturally sweet. The pumpkin softens beautifully in the coconut milk, creating a rich and velvety dish that feels warm and satisfying. It is easy to prepare and perfect for a nourishing meal.

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 20 minutes | Total time: 30 minutes | Servings: 2

Ingredients

• Refined coconut oil: 1 tablespoon
• Pumpkin: 2 cups, cubed
• Onion: 1 small, chopped
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
• Ginger: 1-inch piece, grated
• Coconut milk: 1 cup
• Vegetable broth: 1 cup
• Turmeric powder: ½ teaspoon
• Curry powder: 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper: ½ teaspoon
• Celtic sea salt to taste
• Lime juice: 1 tablespoon
• Fresh cilantro: 2 tablespoons, chopped

Method

1. Heat the refined coconut oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger. Cook until fragrant.
2. Add the pumpkin cubes and stir to coat with the aromatics.
3. Stir in the turmeric, curry powder, black pepper, and Celtic sea salt.
4. Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth.
5. Simmer for 15–18 minutes, or until the pumpkin is tender and the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Add lime juice for brightness.
7. Top the creamy Sri Lankan pumpkin curry with fresh cilantro before serving.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: ≈310
• Protein: 4 g
• Fibre: 5 g
• Fat: 20 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g

Health Benefits

Pumpkin provides fibre, vitamins A and C, and natural sweetness that pairs well with warm spices. The coconut milk adds healthy fats that help create a filling and satisfying meal.

You can learn more about the benefits of pumpkin.
Explore our healthy vegan pumpkin recipes.

Recipe #9 — Sri Lankan Vegetable Kottu (Kottu Roti)

This quick Sri Lankan vegetable kottu is a colourful and satisfying stir-fry made with shredded flatbread, vegetables, and warm Sri Lankan spices. It is hearty, flavourful, and comforting, bringing the essence of traditional kottu into a fast and simple plant-based version.

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 15 minutes | Total time: 25 minutes | Servings: 2

Ingredients

• Avocado oil: 1 tablespoon
• Roti or flatbread: 2 pieces, cut into small strips
• Onion: 1 small, sliced
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
• Carrot: ½ cup, julienned
• Cabbage: 1 cup, shredded
• Green beans: ½ cup, sliced
• Soy sauce: 1 tablespoon
• Curry powder: 1 teaspoon
• Chilli flakes: ½ teaspoon
• Black pepper: ½ teaspoon
• Celtic sea salt to taste
• Lime juice: 1 tablespoon
• Fresh cilantro: 2 tablespoons, chopped

Method

1. Heat the avocado oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic. Cook until softened.
3. Add the carrot, cabbage, and green beans. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes.
4. Stir in the soy sauce, curry powder, chilli flakes, and black pepper.
5. Add the shredded roti pieces and mix well until everything is combined.
6. Cook for another 3–4 minutes until the roti softens slightly and absorbs the seasonings.
7. Season with Celtic sea salt and lime juice.
8. Top the Sri Lankan vegetable kottu with cilantro before serving.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: ≈320
• Protein: 7 g
• Fibre: 5 g
• Fat: 12 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g

Health Benefits

This dish combines fibre-rich vegetables with satisfying carbohydrates from roti, creating a balanced and energizing meal. The spices add warmth and antioxidants, making the dish both flavourful and nourishing.

You can learn more about the benefits of cabbage.
Explore our best 30-minute vegan stir-fry recipes.

Recipe #10 — Spicy Sri Lankan-Inspired Jackfruit Stir-Fry (Polos Mallum)

This spicy Sri Lankan-inspired jackfruit stir-fry is spicy, aromatic, and full of texture. Young jackfruit absorbs the seasonings beautifully, creating a hearty and satisfying plant-based dish. It cooks quickly and brings vibrant flavour to any meal.

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 15 minutes | Total time: 25 minutes | Servings: 2

Ingredients

• Avocado oil: 1 tablespoon
• Young green jackfruit (canned in water): 2 cups, drained and shredded
• Onion: 1 small, sliced
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
• Chilli flakes: ½ teaspoon
• Turmeric powder: ½ teaspoon
• Curry powder: 1 teaspoon
• Soy sauce: 1 tablespoon
• Lime juice: 1 tablespoon
• Celtic sea salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro: 2 tablespoons, chopped

Method

1. Heat the avocado oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic. Cook until softened.
3. Add the shredded jackfruit and stir for 2–3 minutes.
4. Stir in the chilli flakes, turmeric, curry powder, soy sauce, Celtic sea salt, and black pepper.
5. Cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the jackfruit is heated through and lightly crisp on the edges.
6. Add the lime juice and mix well.
7. Top the spicy Sri Lankan-inspired jackfruit stir-fry with cilantro before serving.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: ≈180
• Protein: 3 g
• Fibre: 7 g
• Fat: 7 g
• Carbohydrates: 28 g

Health Benefits

Jackfruit offers fibre and a natural plant-based texture, making it a great alternative to meat. The spices add antioxidants and help stimulate digestion while keeping the dish light and nourishing.

You can learn more about the benefits of jackfruit.
Explore our delicious vegan jackfruit salad sandwich recipes.

Conclusion

Sri Lankan cuisine is rich, fragrant, and full of comforting warmth, and these 30-minute vegan recipes make it easy to enjoy those flavours at home.

Each dish brings together colourful vegetables, creamy coconut, and gentle spices that create meals full of nourishment and balance.

From quick soups to vibrant salads, hearty stir-fries, and creamy curries, this collection shows how simple it can be to cook flavourful plant-based meals inspired by Sri Lankan traditions. These dishes offer both comfort and brightness, making them perfect for everyday cooking.

I hope these recipes inspire you to explore even more global vegan flavours and bring a little extra warmth and joy to your kitchen.

I trust you enjoyed this article on the Best 30-Minute Vegan Sri Lankan Recipes. Please stay tuned for more plant-based recipes, vegan travel tips, and lifestyle inspiration.

Take care!
— JeannetteZ 🌿

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