Prawn Rice with Moringa: A Sri Lankan Comfort Food
As someone who’s never had this dish growing up, discovering this beautiful Sri Lankan prawn rice through my sister-in-law has been a delightful culinary journey. This recipe, rich with fragrant spices, tangy tamarind, and creamy coconut milk, quickly became a comfort food favorite — especially on those cold days when all you want is something soothing and nourishing.
Puli kanji has a special connotations among Sri Lankans. It is one of the comfort food during rainy days or when one is down with cold. It's easy to make and quick. Definitely, a perfect winter warmer to sooth your taste buds.
Ingredients:
1/2 cup parboiled rice
4 cups of water
5 small onions-chopped
10 cloves of garlic-chopped
20 medium sized prawns or 3 tbsp of dried prawns
1 tsp of chilli powder or 1 tbsp chili paste
a pinch of turmeric powder
1tbsp f coriander seeds
1/2 tsp of cumin seeds
1/2 tsp of pepper (grind with coriander and cumin seeds and set aside)
2 tsp of tamarind pulp-mixed with little water
1/2 cup of coconut milk
a handful of moringa leaves
2 green chillies -chopped
Salt to taste
Method:
1. Wash and cook rice in 2 cups of water
2. When the water begins to boil, add onions, garlic, prawns, chilli powder/paste and turmeric.
3. Once rice is cooked, add ground spices, tamarind, and add ampther 2 cups of water
4. Add coconut milk, moringa leaves, green chilli and salt to taste.
5. Mix and remove from stove.
Note: Vegetarians can omit prawns and add cubes brinjal, pieces of unripe banana (green banana) and jackfruit seeds.
A Bowl of Warmth and Healing
Whether you’re chasing away a cold or simply craving a taste of Sri Lankan home-cooked comfort, this prawn rice delivers with every spoonful. It’s a reminder of the special moments shared in kitchens across cultures, the love passed down through family recipes, and the healing power of food that soothes the soul.
Give it a try — and let this humble dish bring a little warmth and care into your day.
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