Coconut Squares (Sri Lankan)

Ingredients:

* 3/4cup + 2-3tbsp Milk

* 3 + 3/4cups Granulated Sugar

* 1tsp Vanilla Extract 

* 5-6cups Fresh Coconut 

Note: Fresh cocnut is preferable (450g); if unavailable use unsweetened coconut shredded. 

* 1/4tsp Pink Gel Food Coloring 

Directions:

1. Bring the milk and sugar to boil in a heavy bottomed saucepan, on low heat, gradually dissolving the sugar. Once sugar has dissolved, increase heat to medium and bring the mixture to boil. 

2. Once milk/sugar mixture has come to a boil, add in the coconut stirring well, for about 3-4 minutes.

Note: Times are for fresh coconut, if using unsweetened packaged coconut, you will need to let it cook a minte or two more. 

3. Take the mixture off the heat and add in the vanilla, stirring well to mix. Then add in the food coloring, adding just enough to get the color you desire. 

4. Line a square or recatangular baking dish with foil, leave a little overhang as it will be easy to lift out the coconut rock once set. 

5. Pour the mixture into the prepared pan, and smoothen it out with a spatula or the back of a spoon. 

6. Allow to cool half way before scoring the block of cocnut rock into squares. Leave to cool fully. Once cooled fully take the coconut rock out of the dish and place it on a cutting board. Press down with a knife along the scored lines, making even cuts, into squares.

Note: Best stored in an air tight container. 

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