Fried Bombili

Description

Crispy, Spicy & Packed with Local Goodness

Crisp-fried Bombay Duck (Bombili Karawala) stir-fried with onions, chilli pieces, nai chilli, and curry leaves. A fiery, flavourful treat that’s perfect with hot rice or as a crunchy side dish.

Sri Lankan Fried Bombili is a popular coastal delicacy featuring small, slender fish known locally as bombili or anchovies. These tiny fish are cleaned, seasoned, and deep-fried until crispy and golden brown. Known for their crunchy texture and intense umami flavour, fried bombili are often enjoyed as a snack, side dish, or topping. They add a salty, savoury punch to meals and are commonly served with rice, sambols, or incorporated into Sri Lankan snack mixes for an authentic coastal taste.

Real fried Bombili
Flavoured with Nai chilli & curry leaves
Ready to eat – no preparation needed

🧂 Processing

Fresh or dried bombili fish are thoroughly cleaned and rinsed to remove any impurities. If using fresh fish, they may be lightly salted and marinated briefly to enhance flavour. The fish are then drained and patted dry to ensure crispiness when fried. In hot oil, the bombili are deep-fried in small batches until they turn golden brown and crispy, usually taking just a few minutes. The fried fish are removed from the oil and drained on paper towels to absorb excess oil. Sometimes, a sprinkle of chilli powder or a squeeze of lime is added before serving to enhance the flavour. The crispy fried bombili are ready to be enjoyed as a snack or side dish.

🎨 Colour & Appearance

Fried Bombili typically have a golden to light brown colour with a crispy, crunchy texture. The small, slender fish are whole and retain their shape, often slightly curled or crisped at the edges from frying. Their surface has a shiny, oily sheen from the frying process, and the overall look is rustic and appetising—small, bite-sized pieces with a delicate crunch and visible fine details like tiny fins and tails.

🍽 Food Applications

• Snack or Appetiser: Eaten on its own as a crunchy, salty snack.

• Rice Accompaniment: Served alongside steamed rice and sambols to add texture and flavour.

• Topping: Sprinkled over rice dishes, hoppers, or salads for a crispy, savoury boost.

• Ingredient in Mixed Snacks: Combined with nuts, fried dhal, or spices in traditional Sri Lankan snack mixes.

• Side Dish: Paired with vegetable curries or coconut sambol for balanced meals.

• Lunch Box Item: Included in packed meals for an easy-to-eat protein source.

🧾 Ingredients

Fried Bombay Duck, Onion, Chilli pieces, Salt, Vegetable Oil, Nai chilli & Curry Leaves.

✅ Dietary Info

• High in Protein: A great source of lean animal protein.

• Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Supports heart and brain health.

• Low in Carbohydrates: Contains negligible carbs, suitable for low-carb diets.

• Contains Essential Minerals: Provides calcium, phosphorus, and iron.

• Moderate Fat Content: Contains healthy fats but can be higher in calories due to frying—best consumed in moderation.

• Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free: Naturally free from gluten and dairy ingredients.

• Allergen Alert: Not suitable for those with fish or seafood allergies.

🕒 Storage & Shelf Life

Store in a cool, dry place.  Transfer contents to a clean, dry container after opening and Refrigerate. Best enjoyed within 2–3 months to retain freshness and flavour.

📦 Packaging

Packaged in can’s that seal in aroma and taste. Available in compact sizes for daily use and larger jars for culinary professionals. Wholesale options tailored for retailers.

Additional information