Nasi goreng - fried rice

nasi_goreng_-_fried_rice

Indonesia has a rich culinary culture that offers a variety of delicious dishes. One of the most iconic Indonesian dishes is Nasi Goreng, or fried rice. Nasi Goreng literally translates to “fried rice” in Indonesian and it’s a dish that is enjoyed by many Indonesians and people all over the world.

The dish itself is pretty simple, as it consists of cooked rice that is fried with a combination of spices, vegetables, meat, and/or shrimp. There are endless variations to Nasi Goreng, as each region and family has their own unique recipe. However, the basic ingredients usually include garlic, shallots, chilies, soy sauce, and sometimes shrimp paste or terasi.

Nasi Goreng is a popular breakfast dish in Indonesia and is also commonly found in food stalls and restaurants. It’s often served with fried eggs and a side of pickles or acar, which is a type of pickled vegetables. Many people choose to add some crunchy crackers or kerupuk to their dish for an extra layer of texture and flavor.

The history of Nasi Goreng can be traced back to Chinese immigrants who brought their own variation of fried rice to Indonesia. Over time, the dish has evolved and adapted to the local Indonesian ingredients and spices, resulting in a unique and flavorful dish that is loved by many.

One of the great things about Nasi Goreng is that it can be customized to suit different tastes and preferences. For example, some people prefer to keep it vegetarian by adding a variety of vegetables such as carrots, peas, and cabbage. Others like to add some protein like chicken, beef, or shrimp.

To make Nasi Goreng, you will need some cooked rice (preferably day-old rice), garlic, shallots, chilies, soy sauce, and a variety of other ingredients depending on your recipe. You’ll need to fry the garlic, shallots, and chilies until fragrant before adding in the rest of your ingredients. It’s important to use high heat so that the rice becomes crispy and has a slightly smoky flavor.

Overall, Nasi Goreng is a beloved dish in Indonesia and is a great way to experience the flavors and culture of the country. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a dish that can be enjoyed by anyone, anywhere. Whether you’re a beginner cook or a seasoned pro, give this recipe a try and get ready for a taste of Indonesia!

Ingredients:

• 4 cups cooked white rice (preferably leftover)

• 2 chicken breasts, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 small onion, chopped

• 1 red bell pepper, diced

• 2 tablespoons sweet soy sauce (kecap manis)

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

• 1 teaspoon shrimp paste

• 2 eggs

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

• Salt and Pepper to taste

• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for topping)

Instructions:

  1. Heat a wok or large frying pan over high heat. Add the vegetable oil and swirl to coat the pan.

  2. Add the garlic and onion and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

  3. Add the chicken and stir-fry until browned and cooked through.

  4. Add the red bell pepper and stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes until softened.

  5. Push the chicken and vegetables to one side of the wok and crack in the eggs on the other side. Scramble the eggs and then stir-fry them with the chicken and vegetables.

  6. Add the cooked rice, sweet soy sauce, regular soy sauce, and shrimp paste to the wok. Toss everything together until well mixed.

  7. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the rice is heated through and has a slightly crisp texture.

  8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

  9. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot. Enjoy your Indonesian Nasi goreng fried rice.