Name: Sri Lankan Fish Cutlets
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 40 min

Sri Lankan cuisine is celebrated for its bold spices, rich aromas, and irresistible snack culture. Among the most popular appetizers and party bites are Sri Lankan Fish Cutlets—crispy, golden croquettes filled with spiced fish and mashed potatoes, coated in breadcrumbs, and deep-fried to perfection.

This Sri Lankan fish cutlets recipe delivers the perfect balance of crunch on the outside and soft, flavorful filling inside. Whether served at festive gatherings, tea parties, Ramadan iftar tables, or family celebrations, these crispy fish cutlets are always the first to disappear.

Often shaped into small balls or oval patties, authentic Sri Lankan fish cutlets are packed with tuna or cooked fish, aromatics, green chilies, and signature spices that give them their unmistakable taste.

What Makes Sri Lankan Fish Cutlets Unique?

Unlike Western-style croquettes, spicy fish croquettes Sri Lanka style are intensely seasoned and slightly spicy. They are not bland or mild. The filling is sautéed with onions, curry leaves, and spices before being shaped and fried.

Key features include:

Crispy breadcrumb coating
Soft, well-seasoned fish filling
Balanced heat from green chilies
Aromatic curry leaves
Perfect party-sized portions

These Sri Lankan party snacks are deeply rooted in the country’s food culture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Perfect make-ahead appetizer
Freezer-friendly
Budget-friendly ingredients
Great for parties and gatherings
Customizable spice level

If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing snack with authentic flavor, this Sri Lankan fish cutlets recipe is a must-try.

Ingredients

2 cups boiled potatoes, mashed
1 ½ cups canned tuna (drained) or cooked flaked fish
1 medium red onion, finely chopped
2 green chilies, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, minced
8–10 curry leaves, finely chopped
½ teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 tablespoon lime juice
Salt to taste
1 cup breadcrumbs (for coating)
1 egg, beaten
Oil for deep frying

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Heat a small amount of oil in a pan over medium heat.
Sauté onions until soft.
Add garlic, ginger, green chilies, and curry leaves. Cook until fragrant.
Add turmeric, chili powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir well.
Add tuna or flaked fish and mix thoroughly.
Stir in mashed potatoes and lime juice.
Cook for 2–3 minutes, then remove from heat.
Let mixture cool completely.

Step 2: Shape the Cutlets

Take small portions of mixture and shape into balls or oval patties.

Step 3: Coat

Dip each cutlet into beaten egg.
Roll in breadcrumbs until fully coated.

Step 4: Fry

Heat oil in deep pan to medium-high heat.
Fry cutlets in batches until golden brown (about 2–3 minutes per side).
Remove and drain on paper towels.

Serve warm for best crispiness.

Tips for Perfect Crispy Fish Cutlets

Cool the Mixture

Warm filling makes shaping difficult and may cause cutlets to break.

Double Coat for Extra Crunch

Dip in egg and breadcrumbs twice for thicker crust.

Don’t Overcrowd the Pan

Frying too many at once reduces oil temperature.

Use Fresh Breadcrumbs

They create lighter, crispier texture.

Variations

Spicier Version

Add extra green chilies or crushed chili flakes.

Creamy Center Twist

Insert a small cube of mozzarella in the center before shaping.

Air Fryer Option

Spray lightly with oil and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes.

Baked Version

Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.

Serving Suggestions

Sri Lankan fish cutlets pair beautifully with:

Sweet chili sauce
Tomato ketchup
Mint chutney
Hot Sri Lankan tea

They’re commonly served during:

Birthday parties
Holiday celebrations
Wedding receptions
Festive gatherings
Afternoon tea

These Sri Lankan party snacks are a staple in many homes.

Storage and Freezing

Refrigerate cooked cutlets up to 3 days
Freeze uncooked breaded cutlets up to 2 months
Fry directly from frozen (add 1–2 extra minutes)

This makes them ideal for meal prep and entertaining.

Cultural Background

Sri Lankan fish cutlets have colonial influences blended with local spice traditions. They are a symbol of hospitality and celebration. Many families have their own secret spice blend passed down through generations.

From small street-side bakeries to grand wedding buffets, authentic Sri Lankan fish cutlets are everywhere across the island.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh fish instead of canned tuna?
Yes, cook and flake firm white fish before mixing.

Why are my cutlets breaking?
The mixture may be too moist—add more mashed potato or breadcrumbs.

Can I make them less spicy?
Reduce green chilies and chili powder.

Final Thoughts

These Sri Lankan Fish Cutlets are crispy, flavorful, and deeply satisfying. With their crunchy exterior and perfectly spiced filling, they represent the heart of Sri Lankan snack culture.

Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving something savory and comforting, this Sri Lankan fish cutlets recipe delivers authentic taste in every bite.