Sri Lankan Seed & Grain Innovations

Long before imported rice and refined flour filled our plates, Sri Lanka’s nutrition came from earthy, homegrown grains and power-packed seeds. These ancient staples—once sidelined—are making a strong comeback in kitchens, cafes, and even five-star menus.

This renaissance is not just about tradition—it’s about health, sustainability, and innovation.

Ancient Grains That Are Making a Comeback

1. Kurakkan (Finger Millet)

A reddish-brown grain with a nutty flavor, kurakkan is rich in calcium, iron, and fiber.

Traditional Uses:

• Kurakkan roti with sambol
• Thalapa (a thick porridge)
• Kurakkan string hoppers

Modern Twists:

• Kurakkan energy bars
• Millet pancakes in wellness cafés
• Gluten-free baked goods

Health Benefits:

• Regulates blood sugar
• Boosts bone health
• High in plant protein

2. Kollu (Horse Gram)

Often overlooked, horse gram is one of the most protein-dense legumes.

Traditional Uses:

• Used in curries and herbal broths
• Fed to farm animals during the monsoon

Modern Twists:

• Sprouted kollu salads
• Protein-packed soups
• Kollu hummus

Health Benefits:

• Supports weight loss
• Known for managing cholesterol and diabetes
• Detoxifying in Ayurvedic practices

3. Meneri (Foxtail Millet)

Small, golden millet with deep roots in dry-zone agriculture.

Traditional Uses:

• Meneri porridge
• Simple village meals

Modern Twists:

• Foxtail millet sushi rolls (yes, really!)
• Millet upma and risotto
• Breakfast bowls with tropical fruits

Health Benefits:

• Low glycemic index
• Improves digestion
• Great for heart health

4. Thala (Sesame Seeds)

An essential seed in Sri Lankan kitchens, sesame is celebrated for its nutritional value and symbolic strength.

Traditional Uses:

• Thala guli (sweet sesame balls)
• Sesame oil in cooking and Ayurveda
• Ritual offerings at temples

Modern Twists:

• Sesame seed protein bites
• Toasted sesame in fusion dishes
• Sesame-encrusted seafood

Health Benefits:

• Rich in good fats and antioxidants
• Supports skin, hair, and heart health

5. Undu (Black Gram)

A pulse used traditionally in string hoppers and thosai batters.

Traditional Uses:

• Mixed with rice for fermentation
• Undu curry for festive meals

Modern Twists:

• Lentil burgers
• Undu dosa waffles
• Black gram pasta

Health Benefits:

• High in fiber and iron
• Aids muscle strength and stamina
• Gut-friendly protein

Innovation Meets Identity: Where to Taste It

• Seed Café (Colombo): Vegan-friendly millet burgers and chia puddings
• Nuga Gama at Cinnamon Grand: Farm-style meals featuring ancient grains
• Kandy’s Farmer’s Markets: Try fresh millet flatbreads and sesame sweets

Many chefs are now working with local farmers to reclaim lost grains and experiment with plant-forward menus that reflect a deeper cultural identity.

Seeds of Health and Heritage

The re-emergence of these grains isn’t just a health trend—it’s a movement rooted in eco-consciousness and pride in indigenous heritage. It supports:

• Sustainable farming over water-intensive monocultures
• Empowerment of village women through grain-based small businesses
• A return to non-processed, nourishing food

Sri Lanka’s seed and grain renaissance is reconnecting people to their land, their culture, and their well-being. These humble ingredients, once forgotten, are now celebrated on both street stalls and silver platters—proof that innovation doesn’t always mean something new. Want to explore millet farms, learn seed-to-plate recipes, or visit health-focused cafés across Sri Lanka? Let Hi DMC guide you through the island’s nutritious revival with curated food trails, cooking classes, and immersive agro-tours.

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