Continuing a tradition passed on by the Maldives, a type of cured tuna called "Maldives Fish" has been a part of Sri Lankan cuisine for the longest time. Popularly known as "Umbalakada," these Maldives fish chips are a delight when added to various dishes like onion sambals and tempered delights.
Maldives fish chips is also considered the Sri Lankan equivalent of Southeast Asia's dried shrimp or dried anchovies. The umami-rich taste reminds you of the sea, similar to dried shrimp but leaning more towards fish. Adding a little bit of Maldives fish chips to a Sambal goes a long way. Sri Lankans love to add umbalakada in tempered dishes like Potatoes, Lunu Miris (onion sambol with chili pieces), and Seeni Sambol (sautéed onion with tamarind pulp and sugar). The chips are chewy and hard but give a unique taste to your food.
