Singhalese Pol (Coconut) Sambol

Ingredients: 

  • 1 cup grated fresh coconut (if you can’t find fresh, use frozen—not the sweet kind) 
  • 2–3 small red onions or shallots (finely sliced) 
  • 2–3 green chilies (or adjust as you like) 
  • 1 teaspoon Chili Powder 
  • Juice of half a lemon 
  • Salt to taste 

 

Method: 

  • Grind or crush the onions, green chilies, and chili powder together until it becomes a paste. (If you don’t have a grinder, just chop finely and mash with the back of a spoon.) 
  • Add the grated coconut and mix well with your hand—yes, use your hand, that’s how the authentic taste is obtained. 
  • Finally squeeze in the lemon juice and add salt. Mix again gently.