Sri Lankan Lunch Packet

Ingredients(for One lunch packet (approx. 400g cooked food wrapped in banana leaf))

• 1 cup Red rice (Kekulu haal) (Traditional Sri Lankan rice variety)
• 200g Chicken breast (Skinless, boneless)
• 1/2 cup Thick coconut milk (Fresh or canned)
• 1/3 cup Split red lentils (Parippu) (For dhal curry)
• 1 small Carrot (Sliced for stir-fry)
• 50g Green beans (Chopped)
• 1 medium Onion (Sliced)
• 2 cloves Garlic (Chopped)
• 2 tsp Curry powder (Sri Lankan roasted curry powder)
• 1/2 tsp Turmeric powder
• 1/2 tsp Mustard seeds
• to taste Salt
• 1/4 tsp Black pepper
• 1 sprig Curry leaves
• 2 pieces Banana leaves (For wrapping) - optional

Instructions

1. 1

   Rinse red rice thoroughly and cook in a rice cooker or pot with 2 cups water until fluffy. Let it rest for 5 minutes.

   15 minutes

   For softer rice, soak for 20 minutes before cooking.

2. 2

   In a saucepan, combine red lentils with 1 cup water, turmeric, and salt. Simmer until soft. Stir in 2 tbsp coconut milk and cook for 2 more minutes for creamy dhal.

   10 minutes

   Add a pinch of black pepper for extra flavor.

3. 3

   Heat 1 tsp coconut oil in a pan. Add onions, garlic, and curry leaves. Sauté until fragrant. Add diced chicken, curry powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes.

   7 minutes

   Cut chicken into small cubes for faster cooking.

4. 4

   Pour in remaining coconut milk. Simmer chicken until fully cooked and sauce thickens (about 5 minutes).

   5 minutes

   Do not overcook the chicken to keep it moist.