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Pol-sambol-inspired coconut relish

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A fresh, untested coconut relish developed in reference to Sri Lankan pol sambol. This formula is an adaptation, not a documented traditional recipe or a preserve.

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Fresh orange-red coconut relish with red onion, chilli and lime in an ivory bowl; an original modern adaptation inspired by pol sambol.

A fresh adaptation, not a preserved sambol

Sri Lanka Tourism lists pol sambol (coconut sambol) among Sri Lankan sambols. That source gives cultural context, not a formula for this version. The quantities and method here are an original development formulation: coconut is mixed with onion, chilli, lime and salt, with a little optional sugar. It is intended to remain textured and be served fresh.

This recipe is not a preservation method. It has not been kitchen-tested, sensory-validated or assessed for shelf life. The report's approximate yield and 10-minute preparation estimate have not been verified in a kitchen.

Sources for this section

History

This is a modern development inspired by pol sambol. Sri Lanka Tourism identifies pol sambol as coconut sambol but does not date this adaptation or establish its exact formula.

Ingredients

Yield 240 g · Scaling: source batch only

Grated coconut (fresh or thawed unsweetened)
150 g
Red onionFinely dice.
40 g
Lime juice, Citrus aurantiifolia (paper spelling: C. aurantifolia)
30 g
Red chilliCrush fresh chilli; alternatively use a smaller amount of dried chilli.
15 g
Salt
3 g
Sugar (optional)
2 g
Optional

Method

Risks and precautions · Standard risk

This untested fresh relish is not a preserve and has not been validated for room-temperature storage or canning.

Refrigerate promptly; no specific shelf life has been established.

  1. Lightly pound or crush the onion and chilli together.
  2. Add the coconut, salt and lime juice. Work them together until evenly seasoned while keeping a textured relish.
  3. Taste and add the optional sugar if desired. Serve fresh.

Conditions

Yield240 g
Active time10 min

Places

Sri Lanka

Modern adaptation · Country evidence

The source documents pol sambol as Sri Lankan coconut sambol; it does not establish this adaptation's origin or any more precise place.

See Sri Lankaon the mapLocation source 1 →

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