Craving a quick, flavorful, and authentically Indonesian meal? Look no further than Nasi Goreng! This Indonesian fried rice is a beloved dish known for its incredible blend of savory, sweet, and spicy notes. It's incredibly versatile, easily customizable to your taste, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch. This recipe guides you through creating a delicious, homemade Nasi Goreng – a true taste of Indonesia! Get ready to elevate your quick dinner ideas with this easy recipe!
Ingredients:
This recipe serves 2-3 people. Feel free to double or triple it depending on your needs!
- 2 cups cooked rice (day-old rice works best!)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red chili, finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1/2 cup shredded chicken or shrimp (optional, but highly recommended!)
- 1/4 cup sweet soy sauce (kecap manis)
- 2 tablespoons light soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon tomato ketchup
- 1 teaspoon shrimp paste (belacan, optional, adds a pungent depth of flavour)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup chopped scallions or spring onions
- Fried shallots (optional, for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the aromatics
Heat the vegetable oil in a large wok or frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onions and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and softened, about 2 minutes. Add the chopped chili and stir-fry for another minute.
Step 2: Add protein (optional)
If using chicken or shrimp, add it to the wok and stir-fry until cooked through. This adds a fantastic protein boost to your healthy meal.
Step 3: The Flavor Explosion
Stir in the sweet soy sauce, light soy sauce, tomato ketchup, shrimp paste (if using), ground turmeric, and black pepper. Mix well to combine the flavors. This is where the magic happens!
Step 4: Fried Rice Magic
Add the cooked rice to the wok. Break it up with a spatula, ensuring every grain is coated in the delicious sauce. Stir-fry for 3-5 minutes, until heated through and slightly crispy.
Step 5: Egg-cellent Addition
Pour the beaten egg into the wok and quickly scramble it amongst the rice. This adds richness and texture to the dish.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Stir in the chopped scallions. Garnish with fried shallots (if using) and serve immediately with lime wedges. This simple garnish adds a vibrant touch to your delicious dish.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Nasi Goreng:
- Day-old rice is key: Day-old rice is drier and less sticky, resulting in a better texture for fried rice.
- High heat: Use medium-high heat to achieve a nice sear on the rice and prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Don't overcook: Once the rice is heated through and nicely coated, remove it from the heat.
- Customize it: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, peas, or bean sprouts. You can also experiment with different proteins.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Nasi Goreng: Omit the chicken or shrimp and add your favorite vegetables for a hearty vegetarian option.
- Spicy Nasi Goreng: Add more chilies or a dash of chili garlic sauce for extra heat.
- Nasi Goreng with Satay: Serve your Nasi Goreng with grilled satay for a complete and incredibly flavorful Indonesian feast.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 (depending on ingredients)
This delicious and easy-to-make Nasi Goreng is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its best, providing a flavorful and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this taste of Indonesia!