Indonesian Fried Rice

Indonesian Fried Rice Recipe - Authentic Nasi Goreng

Region / culture: Indonesia | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Indonesian Fried Rice, also known as Nasi Goreng, is a popular and flavorful dish that is enjoyed by many around the world. This dish is a staple in Indonesian cuisine and is often made with leftover rice and a variety of ingredients such as eggs, shrimp, and meat.

History

Nasi Goreng has a long history in Indonesia and is believed to have originated as a way to use up leftover rice. The dish has evolved over the years and is now a beloved and iconic dish in Indonesian cuisine. It is often enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner and can be found in restaurants and street food stalls throughout the country.

Ingredients

1 cup cooked rice (preferably overnight)
2 large eggs
400 g raw shrimps, shell removed
salt to taste
6 tbsp cooking oil
3 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
1 onion, finely chopped
2 red chilies, seeds removed and finely sliced
1 tsp coriander seeds
0.5 tsp sugar
200 g thinly sliced steak
2 tsp sweet soy sauce
1 tbsp soy sauce, or to taste
4 onions, finely chopped

How to prepare

In a bowl, beat the eggs until foamy.
Add a pinch of salt to taste.
Heat a wok or frying pan and coat it with a little cooking oil to prevent sticking.
Pour a quarter of the beaten eggs into the pan to make an omelet.
Cook both sides of the omelet evenly.
Repeat the process three more times until all the egg mixture is used.
Cut the cooked eggs into strips and set aside for later use as a topping for the nasi goreng.
Using a food processor, blend the onion, chili, garlic, sugar, and coriander until it forms a thick paste.
Heat a wok or frying pan and add 2 tbsp of cooking oil.
Saute the processed paste until fragrant.
Add the meat and raw shrimps.
Cook for a few more minutes until the color changes.
Finally, add the cooked rice and more cooking oil if needed.
Add all the sauces and scallions, and continue frying for 30-60 seconds until fragrant.
Transfer the fried rice to a plate and garnish with the strips of omelet.
Serve hot.

Variations

Vegetarian: Omit the meat and shrimp and add tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version of this dish.
Spicy: Add more chili or sambal for a spicier version of Indonesian Fried Rice.
Seafood: Use a mix of seafood such as squid, fish, and mussels instead of shrimp for a seafood twist on this dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Use leftover rice for the best results, as it will be drier and less sticky than freshly cooked rice.

- Be sure to cook the eggs separately and cut them into strips before adding them to the fried rice for a more visually appealing dish.

- Adjust the amount of chili and soy sauce to suit your taste preferences.

- Make sure to cook the meat and shrimp thoroughly before adding the rice to ensure that everything is cooked through.

Serving Suggestions

Indonesian Fried Rice can be served on its own as a main dish or paired with a side of vegetables or a salad for a more balanced meal. It can also be topped with a fried egg or served with a side of sambal (spicy chili paste) for extra flavor.

Cooking Techniques

The key cooking techniques for Indonesian Fried Rice include frying, sautéing, and blending. It is important to cook the ingredients in the right order and at the right temperature to ensure that everything is cooked through and flavorful.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have shrimp, you can use chicken or beef instead.

- You can use any type of cooking oil for frying, such as vegetable oil or coconut oil.

- If you don't have sweet soy sauce, you can use regular soy sauce and add a little sugar for sweetness.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the ingredients for Indonesian Fried Rice ahead of time, such as chopping the vegetables and marinating the meat. You can also cook the rice in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to make the dish.

Presentation Ideas

To make Indonesian Fried Rice more visually appealing, you can garnish it with sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and a sprinkle of fried shallots. You can also serve it in a hollowed-out pineapple or coconut for a fun and tropical presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Indonesian Fried Rice pairs well with a variety of dishes, such as grilled meats, satay skewers, and vegetable stir-fries. It can also be served with a side of pickles or crackers for added texture and flavor.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Indonesian Fried Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave the dish until heated through or stir-fry it in a pan with a little oil.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

One serving of Indonesian Fried Rice contains approximately 500-600 calories, depending on the portion size and ingredients used.

Carbohydrates

The main source of carbohydrates in Indonesian Fried Rice comes from the rice itself. One cup of cooked rice contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

The fats in this dish come from the cooking oil used to fry the ingredients. One tablespoon of cooking oil contains around 14 grams of fat.

Proteins

Proteins in Indonesian Fried Rice come from the eggs, shrimp, and meat used in the dish. One large egg contains around 6 grams of protein, while 100 grams of shrimp contains approximately 24 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Indonesian Fried Rice is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and calcium. These nutrients come from the variety of ingredients used in the dish, such as onions, garlic, and meat.

Alergens

This dish contains eggs, shrimp, and soy sauce, which are common allergens. It is important to be aware of any food allergies or sensitivities when preparing and consuming this dish.

Summary

Indonesian Fried Rice is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a flavorful and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed at any time of day.

Summary

Indonesian Fried Rice is a delicious and versatile dish that is easy to make and full of flavor. With a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can enjoy this iconic Indonesian dish at home.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was drawn to it like a moth to a flame. It was a hot summer day, and I was visiting a friend who had recently returned from a trip to Indonesia. She invited me over for lunch, and as soon as I walked into her kitchen, the aroma of spices and herbs filled the air.

My friend explained that she had learned how to make Indonesian Fried Rice, also known as Nasi Goreng, while traveling through the beautiful country. She had picked up the recipe from a local street vendor who had been cooking up a storm in a bustling market.

As I watched her chop up fresh vegetables, sizzle up some fragrant garlic and onions, and toss in a mixture of soy sauce, kecap manis, and sambal oelek, I knew I had to learn how to make this dish myself. The flavors were bold and complex, a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and spicy.

After that fateful lunch, I made it my mission to master the art of Indonesian Fried Rice. I started by researching different recipes online, watching countless YouTube tutorials, and even reaching out to my friend for guidance. I experimented with different ingredients and techniques, tweaking the recipe until it was just right.

One day, while browsing through an old cookbook that had been passed down to me from my grandmother, I stumbled upon a handwritten recipe for Nasi Goreng. The paper was yellowed with age, and the ink was faded, but the instructions were clear and concise.

I followed the recipe to the letter, using a mix of leftover rice, diced chicken, shrimp, and vegetables. I sautéed the ingredients in a hot wok, adding a generous amount of kecap manis, a sweet soy sauce that gave the dish its signature caramelized flavor. I sprinkled in some sambal oelek for a spicy kick, and garnished the dish with a fried egg and crispy shallots.

The moment I took my first bite, I was transported back to that sunny afternoon in my friend's kitchen. The flavors were authentic and delicious, a true taste of Indonesia in every bite. I knew then that I had finally mastered the art of Indonesian Fried Rice.

Over the years, I have shared this recipe with friends and family, passing down the tradition of Nasi Goreng from generation to generation. Each time I make it, I am reminded of the journey I took to learn how to cook this dish, and the memories I created along the way.

So, if you ever find yourself craving a taste of Indonesia, just whip up a batch of Indonesian Fried Rice using this recipe. I guarantee you won't be disappointed. Selamat makan! (Bon appétit!)