Easy Indonesian Nasi Goreng Recipe

Nasi Goreng, or fried rice, is a beloved and iconic dish in Indonesian cuisine. It's a savory, aromatic, and customizable meal that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The dish is incredibly versatile, making it an ideal recipe for using leftover rice and turning it into something delicious in just a few minutes. With a few simple ingredients, you can recreate this flavorful and comforting dish right at home. Whether you prefer it spicy or mild, vegetarian or with protein, Nasi Goreng is a perfect go-to meal for anyone seeking a quick and satisfying dish.

Ingredients for Easy Indonesian Nasi Goreng

To make a basic, easy version of Nasi Goreng, here are the ingredients you’ll need:

• 2 cups of day-old cooked rice (preferably cold)
• 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 red chili, finely chopped (optional for heat)
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons of sweet soy sauce (kecap manis)
• 1 tablespoon of regular soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce (optional)
• 1/2 cup of cooked chicken or shrimp (optional)
• 1/4 cup of frozen peas and carrots (or any vegetables of your choice)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Garnishes: sliced cucumber, tomato, and fried shallots (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

Start by preparing all the ingredients before cooking. The rice should be cold or at room temperature, as this prevents it from becoming mushy when fried. If you are using leftover rice, it works perfectly for this dish. Chop your garlic, onion, and red chili (if you like it spicy), and have your protein (chicken or shrimp) and vegetables ready to go.

2. Cook the Egg:

Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Crack the egg into the pan and scramble it until cooked through. Once cooked, remove the scrambled egg from the pan and set it aside.

3. Sauté the Aromatics:

In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil. Sauté the minced garlic, chopped onion, and red chili (if using) over medium heat until the onions become translucent and fragrant, about 2 minutes. The combination of garlic and onion will give the dish its signature aroma.

4. Add the Vegetables and Protein:

Next, add the frozen peas and carrots or any vegetables you’re using. Stir-fry for about 2 minutes until they are cooked through. If you're adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu, toss them into the pan at this point to warm them up.

5. Fry the Rice:

Once the vegetables and protein are ready, add the cold, day-old rice to the pan. Break up any clumps with your spatula or spoon and stir-fry everything together, ensuring the rice gets coated in the oil and evenly heated.

6. Season the Rice:

Add the sweet soy sauce (kecap manis), regular soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using) to the rice. These sauces are the key to giving the dish its rich umami flavor and characteristic color. Stir everything together until the rice is evenly coated with the sauces. Taste and add salt and pepper if needed.

7. Add the Scrambled Egg:

Toss the scrambled egg back into the pan and mix everything together until well combined. The egg adds richness and a nice texture to the fried rice.

8. Garnish and Serve:

Once the rice is cooked and seasoned to your liking, it’s ready to serve. Garnish your Nasi Goreng with sliced cucumber, tomato, and crispy fried shallots for an added crunch and freshness. You can also serve it with a side of sambal (spicy chili paste) for extra heat if desired.

Tips for the Perfect Nasi Goreng:

• Use Day-Old Rice: Freshly cooked rice tends to be too soft and sticky for fried rice. Day-old rice has had time to dry out a bit, which makes it perfect for stir-frying.
• Customize Your Protein: Nasi Goreng can be made with chicken, shrimp, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Use whatever you have on hand or prefer.
• Adjust the Heat: If you enjoy spicier food, feel free to add more chili or a spoonful of sambal to the fried rice for a fiery kick.
• Sweet Soy Sauce (Kecap Manis): This Indonesian soy sauce is thicker and sweeter than regular soy sauce. It’s a key ingredient in Nasi Goreng, so if you can find it, use it to give the dish its signature taste.
• Add More Veggies: If you're looking for a healthier version, feel free to load the dish up with more vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or cabbage.
• Serve with a Fried Egg: A fried egg on top of Nasi Goreng is a classic touch. The yolk adds a creamy richness that elevates the dish.

Why Nasi Goreng Is So Popular:

Nasi Goreng is not just a dish; it’s a cultural icon in Indonesia. It's served at nearly every meal, from breakfast to dinner, and can be found in homes, street food stalls, and high-end restaurants alike. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. Nasi Goreng can be made with just a few simple ingredients or dressed up with extra protein, vegetables, and toppings. It’s quick, easy, and always flavorful.

The dish has also become popular internationally, with many countries adapting it to their own culinary styles. Whether you're craving something simple or looking to impress guests with a flavorful, homemade meal, Nasi Goreng is a perfect choice.