The breathtaking island of Sri Lanka lies in the Indian Ocean and is separated from southeastern India by a mere 30-mile chain of shoals. This proximity to India has had an inevitable effect on Sri Lanka's cuisine, as did the successive Portuguese, Dutch and British occupations. However, over the centuries the majority of these dishes have been modified to suit the local palate. Sample menus, explanations of spice uses and availability, typical cooking techniques, and descriptions of traditional utensils complement the 150 recipes, all adapted for home cooks.