Nasi Goreng: A Flavorful Indonesian Fried Rice Recipe

Nasi Goreng, Indonesia’s beloved fried rice, is a dish full of vibrant flavors, rich aromas, and a story of tradition.

With its roots deeply planted in the diverse culinary landscape of Southeast Asia, this dish can be found in homes and restaurants across Indonesia, each version bringing something unique to the table. Whether you’re craving something spicy, savory, or sweet, Nasi Goreng has all the right notes to satisfy your taste buds. It’s perfect for a hearty breakfast, a filling lunch, or a comforting dinner!

The best part? Nasi Goreng is incredibly versatile, allowing you to use whatever ingredients you have on hand. This easy-to-make recipe is a great way to transform leftover rice into a mouthwatering dish that’s both quick and delicious.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of cold, day-old rice (preferably jasmine rice)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1-2 red chilies, chopped (optional, for heat)
• 1/2 cup cooked chicken or shrimp, shredded or diced (optional, but adds a lovely protein punch)
• 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (like peas, carrots, and bell peppers)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon kecap manis (Indonesian sweet soy sauce)
• 1 teaspoon fish sauce (optional, for a deeper umami flavor)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper (or black pepper)
• 1 egg (fried sunny-side up or scrambled, for garnish)
• Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
• Lime wedges (for a zesty kick)

Note: If you’re craving more flavor, you can also add a pinch of shrimp paste or a dash of sambal (Indonesian chili paste) to elevate the heat and richness.

How to Make Nasi Goreng:

1. Prepare the Rice: The key to perfect Nasi Goreng lies in using cold rice that has been chilled in the fridge. Freshly cooked rice tends to be too soft and sticky for frying. The cold rice grains separate more easily when fried, giving you that classic fried rice texture. If you don’t have leftover rice, cook some and let it cool down for at least an hour.
2. Get the Sizzle Going: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or frying pan over medium-high heat. The wok’s high heat ensures the rice gets a nice char, which gives Nasi Goreng its signature smoky flavor. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion to the pan. Stir-fry them for about 1 minute, or until they release an intoxicating aroma.
3. Add the Protein and Veggies: If you’re using chicken, shrimp, or other proteins, add them now and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until heated through. Then, toss in your mixed vegetables. You can use fresh or frozen veggies, depending on what you have available. Stir-fry them until tender but still crisp, about 2 minutes.
4. Season It Right: Time to bring the flavor. Add the soy sauce, kecap manis (for sweetness), fish sauce (for a savory umami kick), and ground white pepper. Stir everything together until the rice is well-coated with the seasonings. The rice will start to soak up the rich sauces, and the vegetables and proteins will blend into the dish. Keep stirring so the rice doesn’t stick to the pan.
5. Fry the Rice: Push everything to one side of the pan, and in the empty space, add a bit more oil if needed. Crack the egg into the pan and scramble it until fully cooked. Once scrambled, mix the egg through the rice. The egg adds richness and a smooth texture that binds the dish together.
6. Finishing Touches: Once the rice is hot and well-mixed, it’s time to plate. Serve your Nasi Goreng hot, topped with a fried egg (sunny-side up for that perfect runny yolk), a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, and a wedge of lime on the side for that refreshing burst of citrus.

Serving Suggestions:

Nasi Goreng can be served on its own or as a side dish to complement grilled meats or satay. For a more authentic touch, serve it with a small portion of krupuk (Indonesian crackers) for a crunchy contrast. You can also enjoy it with pickled vegetables or a simple cucumber salad to balance the richness of the fried rice.

Why You’ll Love Nasi Goreng:

Nasi Goreng is more than just fried rice; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that come together in one sizzling pan. It’s savory, slightly sweet, and with just the right amount of heat (if you choose to add chilies). Whether you’re making it as a quick weeknight dinner or serving it for a special gathering, this dish is guaranteed to impress.

And the best part? It’s endlessly customizable. Don’t have shrimp or chicken? No problem! You can make a vegetarian version using tofu, tempeh, or simply loading it up with your favorite vegetables. It’s the perfect way to clean out the fridge and make something spectacular.

So next time you have leftover rice, skip the plain fried rice and give Nasi Goreng a try. It’s a dish that promises comfort, flavor, and an unforgettable experience in every bite.