Nasi Goreng, literally translating to “fried rice,” is a staple of Indonesian cuisine that has won hearts around the world. This dish is known for its rich, complex flavors and the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and spicy elements. Typically enjoyed as a hearty breakfast or a fulfilling main course, Nasi Goreng is incredibly versatile and easy to prepare at home. Here’s how to make an authentic and delicious Nasi Goreng.
Ingredients
For the Nasi Goreng:
- 4 cups cooked and cooled jasmine rice (day-old rice works best)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 shallots, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 red chilies, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded (optional)
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 2 tablespoons sweet soy sauce (kecap manis)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon shrimp paste (terasi), toasted (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish and Serving:
- Fried eggs
- Sliced cucumber
- Sliced tomatoes
- Fried shallots
- Lime wedges
- Prawn crackers (kerupuk)
- Fresh cilantro
Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Ensure the rice is cooked and cooled, ideally using leftover rice from the previous day.
- Chop and prepare all the vegetables and proteins.
2. Heat the Oil:
- In a large wok or skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
3. Sauté Aromatics:
- Add the shallots, garlic, and red chilies to the hot oil. Sauté until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add Vegetables and Protein:
- Stir in the diced carrots and shredded cabbage. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- If using cooked chicken, add it now and mix well.
5. Incorporate the Rice:
- Push the vegetables to one side of the wok and pour the beaten eggs into the cleared space. Scramble the eggs until they are just set, then mix them with the vegetables.
- Add the cooked rice to the wok, breaking up any clumps. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes, ensuring the rice is heated through and well mixed with the vegetables and eggs.
6. Season the Rice:
- Pour in the sweet soy sauce (kecap manis), regular soy sauce, and toasted shrimp paste if using. Mix well to evenly coat the rice.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve the Nasi Goreng:
- Divide the Nasi Goreng among plates.
- Top each serving with a fried egg.
- Garnish with sliced cucumber, sliced tomatoes, fried shallots, and fresh cilantro.
- Serve with lime wedges and prawn crackers on the side.
Tips and Variations
- Day-Old Rice: Using day-old rice is crucial as it is drier and prevents the dish from becoming mushy.
- Protein Options: Feel free to substitute chicken with shrimp, beef, or tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red chilies according to your spice tolerance. For a milder dish, remove the seeds from the chilies.
- Vegetables: You can add other vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or green beans to enhance the nutritional value and flavor.
- Authentic Flavor: For an authentic Indonesian touch, don’t skip the sweet soy sauce (kecap manis) and shrimp paste (terasi).
Nasi Goreng is a delightful Indonesian dish that offers a wonderful blend of flavors and textures. Its versatility allows you to adapt the recipe based on your preferences and available ingredients, making it a perfect go-to meal for any time of the day. With its rich, savory taste and simple preparation, Nasi Goreng is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy this classic fried rice dish and bring a taste of Indonesia into your home!
