Kiribath

Kiribath

Kiribath is a traditional Sri Lankan dish made from rice and coconut milk. It is often served on special occasions and celebrations, such as the Sinhala and Tamil New Year. The dish is simple yet flavorful, and it holds a significant cultural and symbolic value in Sri Lanka.

Ingredients

To make Kiribath, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups of white rice
• 4 cups of coconut milk
• Salt to taste

Preparation

1. Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water to remove any excess starch. 2. In a large pot, combine the rinsed rice, coconut milk, and salt. 3. Place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. 4. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid. 5. Allow the rice to simmer for about 20-25 minutes or until it becomes soft and the coconut milk is absorbed. 6. Stir occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pot. 7. Once the rice is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes.

Serving

Kiribath is traditionally served in a rectangular shape. To achieve this, you can use a flat tray or a square baking dish. Grease the tray or dish with a little bit of coconut oil or butter to prevent sticking. Transfer the cooked rice into the tray and spread it evenly. Use a knife or a spatula to cut the rice into diamond or square shapes.

Kiribath is often enjoyed with a variety of accompaniments, such as:

• Lunu Miris - a spicy onion and chili sambal
• Seeni Sambol - a sweet and spicy caramelized onion relish
• Pol Sambol - a coconut relish with chili and other spices
• Mung Bean Curry - a flavorful curry made with mung beans
• Ambul Thiyal - a sour fish curry

Significance

Kiribath holds a special place in Sri Lankan culture and is associated with auspicious occasions. It is believed to bring good luck and prosperity to those who consume it. The dish is often prepared as the first meal of the Sinhala and Tamil New Year, symbolizing the start of a new year and the hope for a prosperous future.

References

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  Sujata and the Buddha

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  Kiribath (milk rice)