Nasi Goreng, Indonesia's iconic fried rice, is a culinary symphony of sweet, savory, and spicy notes. This beloved dish is more than just a meal; it's a vibrant expression of Indonesian culture, capturing the essence of its rich flavors in every bite. Each serving of Nasi Goreng is a celebration, often garnished with a perfectly fried egg and crispy fried onions, adding texture and depth.
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Distinct from other fried rice variations, Nasi Goreng's unique character comes from its use of Kecap Manis and shrimp paste, adding a smoky, earthy umami kick. The addition of Thai chili further distinguishes it with a spicy flare. While commonly found in Indonesian homes and streets, each version of Nasi Goreng has its own twist, reflecting personal or regional preferences.
In essence, Nasi Goreng is a versatile, flavorful one-pot dish, ideal for those who relish a bit of heat in their meals. It's not only a crowd-pleaser for lunch or dinner but also a great choice for parties. Quick and easy to prepare, often in less than 30 minutes, it's perfect for those seeking a fast and satisfying weeknight dinner option.
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Ingredients and Substitutions Overview
For preparing Nasi Goreng, gather a mix of essential Asian pantry staples along with specific specialty ingredients. You can conveniently find these items at Asian grocery stores or through online retailers. Let's see what you will need:
- Cold Cooked Rice: The foundation of Nasi Goreng. Use day-old rice (white, brown, basmati, or jasmine) as it's drier and fries better, giving the perfect texture.
- Chicken: Choose between boneless chicken breast or thighs, depending on your preference for texture and flavor.
- Kecap Manis (Sweet Soy Sauce): This is crucial for the dish's signature sweet and savory profile. If unavailable, a homemade mix of soy sauce and brown sugar, reduced to a syrupy consistency, can work as a substitute.
- Shrimp Paste: A staple in Indonesian cooking, shrimp paste adds a rich umami depth. If unavailable, fish sauce is a good alternative.
- Thai Chili: Adjust the amount to suit your heat tolerance. This adds the characteristic spicy element to the dish.
- Aromatics: Onions and garlic are key for their sweet and aromatic contribution.
- Toppings: Elevate the dish with classic toppings like a fried egg, crispy fried onions, fresh cucumber and tomato slices, and spring onions, which add a delightful contrast in flavors and textures.
How to Make Indonesian Nasi Goreng at Home?
Dive into the vibrant world of Indonesian cuisine with our step-by-step Nasi Goreng recipe. Each photo and video guide you through the process, ensuring your dish is as authentic and delicious as it can be. Let's get started!
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Nasi Goreng (Indonesian Fried Rice)
Ingredients
- 10 oz Chicken Breast, or thighs
- 4 cups Cooked White Rice, day old cold rice preferred
- ¼ cup Shallots, chopped
- 2 tbsp Garlic, chopped
- 3 Thai Chili, chopped, reduce according to your heat level
- ½ tsp Shrimp Paste, or, ½ -1 tsp of fish sauce
- 2 tbsp Oil
- 6 tbsp Sweet Soy Sauce, 3 tbsp for mariantion + 3 tbsp for fried rice
- Spring Onions, to garnish
- Fried Egg, for topping
- Fried Onion, for topping
- Cucumber Slices, for topping
- Tomato Slices, for topping
- Chili Sauce, as side sauce
Instructions
To Make Indonesian Nasi Goreng
- Start by marinating chicken breast pieces in Kecap Manis (sweet soy sauce). For best flavor, allow the chicken to marinate for a few minutes while you prep the other ingredients.
- Heat a wok on high and sauté shallots, Thai chilies, and garlic until fragrant. Add shrimp paste and mix well.
- Add the marinated chicken in the wok, spreading it out evenly. Let it cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes to achieve a rustic, crispy texture. Continue cooking and stirring for 3-5 minutes until fully cooked.
- Introduce the cold cooked rice to the wok. Add additional sweet soy sauce and a pinch of salt, stirring thoroughly. Fry everything together for 2-3 minutes.
- Finish by garnishing with spring onions and fried onions, then remove from heat. Now, your homemade Nasi Goreng, bursting with rich flavors and textures, is ready to be savored.
To Serve
- Enjoy this Nasi Goreng with your preferred toppings and sides, as suggested in the dedicated section. Pair it with a complementary soup or protein for a complete, satisfying meal. Tailor to your taste for the perfect dining experience.
Recipe Video
Chef's Notes and Tips
- Day-Old Rice: The key to great fried rice is using day-old rice, as it has less moisture and fries better. For this dish, you can use white, jasmine, or basmati rice. For a healthier option, brown rice is a great substitute. If using fresh rice, cool it for at least 2 hours at room temperature or 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
- Temperature: Maintain high heat during cooking to achieve that perfect stir-fry texture - crispy and crunchy rice.
Nutrition Info
Disclaimer
We're not nutrition experts, and the nutritional information provided is an estimate. Please use it as a guide. For precise details, it's best to consult a professional. To learn more, please view our Detailed Disclaimers.
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Serving Suggestions
- Satay Skewers: Their grilled flavor and savory peanut sauce wonderfully complement the rich taste of Nasi Goreng.
- Gado-Gado: This refreshing Indonesian salad offers a delightful contrast with its fresh vegetables and creamy peanut sauce.
- Indonesian Sambal: Perfect for those who love extra spice, it enhances the dish's heat and flavor.
- Pickled Vegetables (Acar): The tanginess and crunch of Acar provide a pleasant contrast to the soft and savory rice.
- Crispy Prawn Crackers: They add a delightful seafood crunch, complementing the flavors in Nasi Goreng.
- Coconut Soup (Sayur Lodeh): The mild and creamy soup offers a soothing balance to the dish's spices.
- Sunny Side Up Eggs: A classic and essential topping that adds a rich, creamy texture to the Nasi Goreng.
- Cucumber Salad: A simple salad of sliced cucumbers and a light dressing can cleanse the palate.
- Iced Jasmine Tea or Iced Lemon Tea: These beverages help to temper the spiciness and refresh the palate.
Storage Suggestions
Nasi Goreng is best enjoyed fresh, straight from the wok, to experience its full flavor and texture. If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, ensuring your Nasi Goreng remains delicious for later enjoyment.
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