Nasi Goreng

Nasi Goreng Recipe - Indonesian Fried Rice with Chicken and Vegetables

Region / culture: Indonesia | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Nasi Goreng is a popular Indonesian fried rice dish that is flavorful and aromatic. It is a versatile dish that can be customized with various ingredients to suit your taste preferences.

History

Nasi Goreng has its origins in Indonesia and is considered a national dish. It is believed to have been influenced by Chinese fried rice dishes, which were introduced to Indonesia by Chinese immigrants. Over time, Indonesians adapted the recipe to include local ingredients and flavors, resulting in the delicious Nasi Goreng we know today.

Ingredients

4 cups of cold cooked rice
2 tbsp of oil
1 lightly beaten egg
5 shallots, peeled and sliced
2 cloves of garlic, peeled and sliced
3 red chilies, sliced
1 tsp of dried shrimp paste
0.5 tsp of salt
1 tbsp of sweet soy sauce
sliced cucumbers (for garnish)
sliced tomatoes (for garnish)
8 oz (227 g) of sliced chicken or pork or medium shrimp, shelled, deveined, and chopped (optional)
1 cup of shredded cabbage (optional)

How to prepare

Stir the rice using a fork to separate the grains.
Pour a small amount of oil into a wok and fry the egg to create a thin omelet. Allow it to cool, then shred it.
Heat the remaining oil in the wok and fry the shallots, garlic, chilies, and shrimp paste until the shallots become tender. If you are adding any meat or shredded cabbage to this dish, add it now and cook until the meat is fully cooked.
Increase the heat to high and add the rice, salt, and soy sauce. If necessary, add a little oil. Stir constantly until the ingredients are well mixed and heated through.
Garnish with shredded egg, cucumber, and tomato.
Serve with fried egg, fried chicken, satay, and shrimp crackers in the traditional style, if desired.

Variations

Vegetarian Nasi Goreng: Omit the shrimp and chicken and add tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version of the dish.
Seafood Nasi Goreng: Use a mix of seafood such as shrimp, squid, and fish for a flavorful seafood twist.
Spicy Nasi Goreng: Increase the amount of chili used for a spicier version of the dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Use cold cooked rice for the best results, as freshly cooked rice can become mushy when fried.

- Make sure to stir the rice constantly while frying to prevent it from sticking to the pan.

- Customize the dish by adding your favorite proteins and vegetables, such as shrimp, chicken, or tofu.

- Adjust the amount of chili used to suit your spice tolerance.

Serving Suggestions

Nasi Goreng can be served with a variety of accompaniments, such as fried egg, fried chicken, satay, and shrimp crackers. These additions complement the flavors of the dish and add extra texture and protein.

Cooking Techniques

The key cooking technique for Nasi Goreng is stir-frying. Make sure to constantly stir the ingredients in the wok to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have sweet soy sauce, you can substitute with regular soy sauce mixed with a bit of sugar.

- Feel free to customize the vegetables and protein sources in the dish based on your preferences and dietary restrictions.

Make Ahead Tips

Nasi Goreng can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Simply reheat in a pan or microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

To enhance the presentation of Nasi Goreng, garnish with sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and a sprinkle of fried shallots on top. Serve on a platter with additional accompaniments for a visually appealing meal.

Pairing Recommendations

Nasi Goreng pairs well with a refreshing drink like iced tea or a tropical fruit juice. You can also serve it with a side of pickled vegetables or a fresh salad for added texture and flavor contrast.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Nasi Goreng in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat in a pan or microwave until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Nasi Goreng typically contains around 400-500 calories, depending on the ingredients used. It is a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.

Carbohydrates

Nasi Goreng is a carbohydrate-rich dish due to the rice used as the main ingredient. It provides a good source of energy for your body.

Fats

The fats in Nasi Goreng come from the oil used for frying and any additional protein sources, such as shrimp or chicken. It is important to use healthy fats, such as olive oil, for a nutritious meal.

Proteins

Proteins in Nasi Goreng come from ingredients like shrimp, chicken, and eggs. These proteins are essential for muscle growth and repair in the body.

Vitamins and minerals

Nasi Goreng contains vitamins and minerals from the vegetables and protein sources used in the dish. Vegetables like shallots, garlic, and cabbage provide essential nutrients for overall health.

Alergens

Nasi Goreng may contain allergens such as shellfish (shrimp), eggs, and soy sauce. It is important to be mindful of any food allergies when preparing or consuming this dish.

Summary

Overall, Nasi Goreng is a flavorful and nutritious dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. It can be enjoyed as part of a well-rounded diet for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Summary

Nasi Goreng is a delicious and versatile Indonesian fried rice dish that can be customized with various ingredients to suit your taste preferences. With a balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, it is a satisfying and nutritious meal that can be enjoyed as part of a well-rounded diet.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always be special to me. It was many years ago, during a summer trip to Indonesia with my husband. We were exploring the bustling streets of Jakarta, taking in the sights, sounds, and smells of this vibrant city. One evening, we stumbled upon a small food stall tucked away in a busy alleyway. The aroma of sizzling spices and fragrant herbs wafted through the air, drawing us in like a magnet.

As we approached the stall, a friendly older woman greeted us with a warm smile. She was busy cooking up a storm, flipping steaming hot woks filled with an array of colorful ingredients. Intrigued by the delicious smells emanating from her stall, I couldn't resist asking her what she was making. She replied with a twinkle in her eye, "Nasi Goreng, a traditional Indonesian fried rice dish. Would you like to try some?"

My husband and I eagerly nodded, and she quickly dished out generous portions of the fragrant fried rice onto two plates. The first bite was a revelation - the flavors were unlike anything I had ever tasted before. The perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy, with a hint of smokiness that lingered on the palate. It was love at first bite.

I couldn't leave without knowing the secret behind this delicious dish. So, I asked the kind woman if she would be willing to share her recipe with me. She chuckled and agreed, motioning for me to come closer. As she whispered the ingredients and cooking techniques in my ear, I listened intently, committing every detail to memory.

Back home, I couldn't wait to recreate the magic of that Nasi Goreng in my own kitchen. Armed with the precious recipe, I set to work gathering the necessary ingredients - long-grain rice, shallots, garlic, shrimp paste, kecap manis, and an assortment of fresh vegetables and proteins. The aroma that filled my kitchen as I cooked was reminiscent of that bustling alleyway in Jakarta, transporting me back to that unforgettable evening.

The key to a good Nasi Goreng, I learned, lay in the technique. The rice had to be cooked just right - not too soft, not too firm. It needed to be fried quickly over high heat to achieve that perfect crispy texture without turning mushy. The addition of fragrant spices and seasonings, such as turmeric, coriander, and cumin, elevated the dish to new heights.

As I stood over the sizzling wok, stirring and tossing the ingredients with practiced precision, I felt a sense of pride and satisfaction. I was not just cooking a meal; I was recreating a cherished memory, preserving a piece of Indonesian culinary heritage in my own kitchen.

Over the years, I have perfected my Nasi Goreng recipe, tweaking and adjusting it to suit my taste preferences. Sometimes I add a dollop of sambal oelek for an extra kick of heat, or throw in some leftover grilled chicken or prawns for a twist on the classic dish. Each time I make Nasi Goreng, I am reminded of that fateful encounter in Jakarta, and the generous woman who shared her culinary secrets with me.

Now, as I pass down this treasured recipe to my children and grandchildren, I hope that they too will experience the joy and satisfaction of cooking a dish that not only nourishes the body but also feeds the soul. Nasi Goreng will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the power of food to connect us to distant lands and cultures, and the enduring legacy of a simple recipe shared with love and generosity.