Fish patty
| Course | Snack, appetizer, short eat |
|---|---|
| Region or state | Sri Lanka |
| Associated cuisine | Sri Lankan cuisine |
| Main ingredients | Flaked fish (tuna or mackerel), onion, green chilies, ginger, garlic, spices (turmeric, chili powder, black pepper), wheat flour, butter/margarine |
| Similar dishes | Empanada, curry puff |
| Other information | Popular as a tea-time snack and street food |
Fish patties (Sinhala: මාළු පැටිස්) are a popular deep-fried snack in Sri Lanka, characterised by a savory fish (typically mackerel or tuna) and potato filling encased in a crisp, golden-brown pastry shell. They are a staple at tea time, parties, and as a readily available short eat from bakeries and street vendors across the island.
Sri Lankan fish patties are a prime example of a "short eat," a category of small, savory snacks that are a cornerstone of Sri Lankan cuisine. The concept of "short eats" itself, often enjoyed with tea, is believed to be inspired by the English tradition of afternoon tea. The shape of Sri Lankan patties – often crescent or half-moon – bears a striking resemblance to Spanish empanadas and Southeast Asian curry puffs.