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BreakfastMain Course

Kiribath (Sri Lankan Milk Rice)

Kiribath is a traditional Sri Lankan milk rice, often served for breakfast or special occasions. Made with just a few simple ingredients, it's a comforting and subtly sweet dish. The rice is cooked until tender and then infused with rich coconut milk.

An original recipe by Forkin

Total time
50 min
Serves
4
Difficulty
Easy
Per serving
334 kcal
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Kiribath (Sri Lankan Milk Rice)

Mise en place

Ingredients

Measurements

Converted for display; the recipe amounts stay equivalent.

  • 250 gshort grain white rice, washed
  • 500 mlwater
  • 200 mlthick coconut milk
  • 0.5 tsptable salt

Equipment

saucepan · plate · spoon

The method

Step by step

  1. 1

    Place the washed short grain white rice and water into a medium saucepan.

  2. 2

    Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the water is almost absorbed and the rice is tender.

    About 20 min

    Cook’s note: Ensure the heat is low enough to prevent the rice from burning at the bottom.

  3. 3

    Stir in the thick coconut milk and table salt.

  4. 4

    Continue to simmer, uncovered, for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the coconut milk is absorbed and the rice becomes creamy and thick.

    About 7 min

    Cook’s note: The texture should be firm enough to press into shape, but still moist.

  5. 5

    Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it rest, covered, for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the rice to firm up slightly.

    About 10 min

  6. 6

    Spoon the kiribath onto a flat plate or tray and press it down firmly to create an even layer, about 1-inch thick.

    Cook’s note: You can use the back of a spoon or a piece of parchment paper to prevent sticking.

  7. 7

    Once slightly cooled, cut the kiribath into diamond or square shapes and serve.

    Cook’s note: Traditionally served with Lunu Miris (chili onion sambal) or jaggery.

Per serving

Nutrition

Calories
333.8kcal
Protein
5.5g
Carbs
51.8g
Fat
13.8g
Fibre
1.8g
Sugar
1.3g

Estimated from the recipe’s ingredient quantities. Values can vary with brands and substitutions.

Keep it good

Storage

Store leftover kiribath in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Reheating

Gently reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or coconut milk to restore moisture.

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