Sri Lankan Polos Curry
A hearty and flavorful vegan curry made from young, unripe jackfruit (polos). This dish is known for its unique texture that mimics meat and its delicious blend of spices, coconut milk, and a hint of sourness from tamarind.

๐ง Ingredients
- 500 g Young green jackfruit (polos), cleaned and cut into cubes
- 1 tsp Turmeric powder
- 2 tbsp Chilli powder (roasted)
- 2 tbsp Roasted curry powder (Sri Lankan)
- 1 tsp Black pepper powder
- 4 tbsp Tamarind juice (from soaked pulp)
- 4 tbsp Oil (coconut or vegetable)
- 1 2-inch piece Pandan leaf
- 1 sprig Curry leaves
- 3 Green chilies, slit
- 1 large Onion, thinly sliced
- 3 Garlic cloves, minced
- 1 inch piece Ginger, minced
- 1 1-2 inch piece Cinnamon stick
- 4 Cardamom pods, slightly bruised
- 1 tsp Mustard seeds
- 1.5 cups Thick coconut milk
- to taste Salt
๐จโ๐ณ Instructions
- 1
Prepare the young jackfruit: If using fresh, clean and cut into cubes. If using canned, drain and shred. Boil or pressure cook the jackfruit until tender (about 20-30 minutes). Drain and set aside.
๐ก Tip: Young jackfruit can be sticky; oil your hands and knife when handling it. - 2
In a bowl, combine the cooked jackfruit with turmeric powder, chilli powder, roasted curry powder, pepper powder, tamarind juice, and salt. Mix well and set aside.
๐ก Tip: Marinating the jackfruit allows the flavors to penetrate. - 3
Heat oil in a large pot or clay pot over medium-low heat. Add curry leaves, pandan leaf, sliced onions, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Sautรฉ until onions are lightly browned and fragrant (about 5-7 minutes).
๐ก Tip: Low to medium heat prevents burning the aromatics. - 4
Add the cinnamon stick and bruised cardamom pods. Sautรฉ for another minute until fragrant.
๐ก Tip: Whole spices release their aroma slowly, infusing the curry. - 5
Add the marinated jackfruit mixture to the pot. Stir well to combine with the aromatics.
๐ก Tip: Ensure all jackfruit pieces are coated with the spice mixture. - 6
Pour in the thick coconut milk and add the slit green chilies. Bring the curry to a gentle simmer.
๐ก Tip: Do not boil vigorously after adding coconut milk to prevent curdling. - 7
Cover the pot and let it simmer on low heat for at least 1 hour, or until the jackfruit is very tender and the gravy has thickened. Stir occasionally.
๐ก Tip: Slow simmering allows the flavors to meld and the jackfruit to become very tender. - 8
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt if needed. Remove the pandan leaf and cinnamon stick before serving. Serve hot with rice or roti.
๐ก Tip: Polos curry is often served as a main dish with rice and other vegetable curries.
๐ก Pro Tips
- โIf you can't find young green jackfruit, canned young green jackfruit in brine (not syrup) can be used. Drain and shred it thoroughly.
- โAdjust the amount of chilli powder and green chilies to your preferred spice level.
- โFor a richer curry, you can add a second can of thinner coconut milk towards the end of cooking.
โจ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Some recipes add Garcinia Cambogia (goraka) for a more pronounced sourness.
- A tablespoon of roasted red chili powder can be added for extra heat and color.