Kokis (Sri Lankan Crisp Snack)

Kokis is a delicious Sri Lankan deep-fried crispy snack, made from rice flour and coconut milk. It is often served during festive occasions like Sinhala and Tamil New Year. The dough is flavored with a hint of turmeric and shaped into beautiful patterns before frying.

Ingredients

• 2 cups rice flour
• 1/2 cup coconut milk
• 1/4 cup sugar (optional, for sweetness)
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp caraway seeds (optional)
• 1/2 tsp cumin powder (optional)
• Water (as needed to form the dough)
• Oil for deep frying

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix the rice flour, turmeric powder, salt, and optional cumin and caraway seeds.
2. Add the coconut milk to the flour mixture and stir well.
3. Gradually add water, a little at a time, until you get a smooth dough. The dough should not be too soft or too stiff; it should be pliable enough to roll out.
4. Let the dough rest for about 10-15 minutes.
5. Roll the dough out onto a flat surface into a thin sheet. You can use a rolling pin to flatten it.
6. Cut the dough into desired shapes. Traditionally, Kokis is made into flower or square shapes using a special Kokis mold. If you don't have a mold, you can simply cut them into squares or triangles.
7. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. To check if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of dough into the oil. If it rises immediately to the surface, the oil is hot enough.
8. Carefully drop the shaped dough pieces into the hot oil and fry until golden brown and crispy, turning them occasionally to ensure even cooking.
9. Once fried, remove the Kokis from the oil and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
10. Allow them to cool completely before serving. They will become even crispier as they cool down.

Watch How It's Made

Tips & Variations

• If you prefer sweeter Kokis, you can add more sugar to the dough, or sprinkle some powdered sugar after frying.
• If you want extra flavor, you can add a bit of cinnamon powder or cardamom powder to the dough.
• For a more authentic touch, use a traditional Kokis mold to get the decorative shapes.

Serving Suggestions

• Kokis is traditionally served as a snack with a cup of tea or coffee.
• They are perfect for festive occasions, such as Sinhala and Tamil New Year or any special celebration.
• Enjoy them as an appetizer or a crunchy treat at family gatherings or parties.

Nutrition (approx. per serving)

• Calories: 120–150 kcal (per piece)
• Protein: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fats: 6–8g