Nasi Goreng Recipe

Indonesian · Main course · 20 min total

Nasi Goreng is Indonesia's iconic fried rice, bursting with sweet, savory, and spicy flavors. This quick and easy recipe recreates the authentic taste at home with kecap manis and a sambal kick.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cold cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old)
• 2 tablespoons kecap manis (sweet soy sauce)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sambal oelek or other chili paste
• 2 shallots, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1/2 cup cooked protein (shrimp, chicken, or tofu), diced
• 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Salt and white pepper to taste
• For garnish: sliced cucumber, tomato, fried shallots, and a fried egg (optional)

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, mix kecap manis, soy sauce, and sambal oelek; set aside.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add shallots and garlic; stir-fry until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add protein and cook until heated through, about 1 minute.
4. Push ingredients to the side, pour beaten egg into the empty space, and scramble until just set. Mix with the other ingredients.
5. Add rice and peas and carrots; stir-fry, breaking up clumps, for 2 minutes.
6. Pour the sauce mixture over the rice; toss to coat evenly. Cook for another minute until rice is hot and slightly caramelized.
7. Season with salt and white pepper. Serve hot, garnished with cucumber, tomato, fried shallots, and a fried egg if desired.

Tips

• Use cold, day-old rice for best texture; fresh rice can become mushy.
• Kecap manis is essential for authentic flavor; find it at Asian grocery stores or online.
• Adjust sambal to your spice preference; omit for a milder dish.
• For a vegetarian version, replace protein with extra tofu or tempeh.

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