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SnackAppetizer

Kokis

Kokis are a traditional Sri Lankan deep-fried snack, known for their distinctive flower-like shape and crispy texture. Made from a simple batter of rice flour and coconut milk, they offer a delightful crunch. These savory treats are a popular choice for festivals and celebrations.

An original recipe by Forkin

Total time
45 min
Serves
4
Difficulty
Medium
Per serving
564 kcal
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VeganVegetarianGluten-free
Kokis

Mise en place

Ingredients

Measurements

Converted for display; the recipe amounts stay equivalent.

  • 250 grice flour
  • 250 mlcoconut milk, full-fat
  • 0.5 tspturmeric powder
  • 0.5 tspsalt
  • 1 tspcaster sugar
  • 700 mlvegetable oil, for frying

Equipment

kokis mold · wok · deep pan · slotted spoon · paper towels · wire rack · whisk · large mixing bowl

The method

Step by step

  1. 1

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the rice flour, turmeric powder, salt, and caster sugar. Whisk them together to ensure even distribution.

    About 2 min

  2. 2

    Gradually pour in the coconut milk while continuously whisking the dry ingredients. Mix until you achieve a smooth, lump-free batter with a consistency similar to pancake batter.

    About 3 min

    Cook’s note: Ensure there are no lumps for a smooth kokis texture.

  3. 3

    Heat the vegetable oil in a deep pan or wok over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot enough to fry, around 175-180°C (350-360°F).

    About 5 min

    Cook’s note: Test the oil temperature by dropping a small amount of batter; it should sizzle and float immediately.

  4. 4

    Once the oil is hot, dip the kokis mold into the hot oil for about 30 seconds to heat it up. This prevents the batter from sticking.

    About 1 min

    Cook’s note: Heating the mold is crucial for easy release of the kokis.

  5. 5

    Carefully remove the hot mold from the oil, shake off any excess oil, then dip it into the batter. Do not submerge the entire mold; leave the very top edge uncovered to allow the kokis to release easily.

    About 1 min

    Cook’s note: Dipping only partially ensures the kokis can slide off the mold.

  6. 6

    Immediately transfer the batter-coated mold back into the hot oil. Fry for a few seconds until the kokis starts to firm up and detach from the mold.

    About 1 min

  7. 7

    Gently shake the mold or use a fork to help release the kokis into the oil. Fry the kokis until golden brown and crispy, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking.

    About 3 min

    Cook’s note: Adjust heat if the kokis browns too quickly or too slowly.

  8. 8

    Using a slotted spoon, remove the cooked kokis from the oil and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

    About 1 min

  9. 9

    Repeat the process with the remaining batter, ensuring the kokis mold is reheated in the oil before each dip into the batter.

    About 15 min

    Cook’s note: Always reheat the mold for best results.

Per serving

Nutrition

Calories
564.1kcal
Protein
5.2g
Carbs
55.2g
Fat
38.8g
Fibre
3.1g
Sugar
2.9g

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

Keep it good

Storage

Store leftover kokis in an airtight container at room temperature.

Reheating

To regain crispiness, briefly reheat in a dry pan or an oven at 150°C (300°F) for a few minutes.

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