Dhonkeyo Kajuru - Sri Lankan Spiced Coconut Rice

Ingredients

• 2 cups (400g) basmati rice 2 cups (400g) basmati rice
• 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk
• 1 cup (240ml) water 1 cup (240ml) water
• 1 cinnamon stick 1 cinnamon stick
• 4 cardamom pods, lightly crushed 4 cardamom pods, lightly crushed
• 4 cloves 4 cloves
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 9g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 52g, 1g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. 2.
   In a large saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, coconut milk, water, cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, cloves, and salt.
3. 3.
   Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid.
4. 4.
   Simmer the rice for 15-20 minutes, or until all the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is tender.
5. 5.
   Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes to allow the rice to steam.
6. 6.
   Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Basmati rice — Rinse the rice thoroughly to remove excess starch and achieve fluffy grains.
• Coconut milk — Shake the can well before using to ensure the cream and liquid are well combined.

Tips & Tricks

• For a richer flavor, toast the spices in a dry pan before adding them to the rice.
• Add a handful of toasted cashews or almonds for a delightful crunch.
• Serve Dhonkeyo Kajuru with a side of spicy Sri Lankan curry for a complete meal.
• Leftover Dhonkeyo Kajuru can be refrigerated and reheated the next day. Add a splash of water or coconut milk while reheating to restore moisture.
• Customize the spice level by adjusting the amount of cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves according to your preference.

Serving advice

Serve Dhonkeyo Kajuru as a main dish accompanied by a variety of Sri Lankan curries, such as chicken curry, lentil curry, and vegetable curry. Garnish with fresh cilantro or toasted coconut flakes for added visual appeal.

Presentation advice

Fluff the rice gently with a fork before serving to maintain its light and fluffy texture. Serve it in a decorative bowl or on a platter, garnished with a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes and a sprig of fresh cilantro.