Authentic Indonesian Nasi Goreng Recipe

Introduction

Welcome to Love With Recipes! Today, we delve into the rich, aromatic, and vibrant world of Indonesian cuisine by exploring the beloved dish known as Nasi Goreng. Often hailed as Indonesia’s national dish, Nasi Goreng is a flavorful fried rice that combines a perfectly balanced harmony of spices, savory proteins, and fresh vegetables, all brought together with a delightful blend of traditional sauces and seasonings. This dish is more than just a meal; it’s a cultural experience that embodies the warmth, diversity, and culinary richness of Indonesia.

This recipe features a combination of succulent shrimp and tender chicken, enhanced with crispy bacon, aromatic garlic, and a medley of colorful vegetables. The rice used here is basmati, which adds a fragrant and fluffy texture, especially when prepared the day before for optimal results. The dish is finished with a fragrant egg garnish, fresh herbs, and a dash of chili paste to add just the right amount of heat and flavor complexity. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, Nasi Goreng provides a hearty, satisfying, and visually appealing meal that will transport your palate straight to the streets of Jakarta.

Estimated Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparation Time: 40 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes

Note: For best results, plan to prepare some ingredients simultaneously, and consider making the rice a day in advance to enhance texture and flavor.

Needed Equipment

• Large wok or deep skillet – essential for stir-frying and maintaining high heat
• Medium saucepan – to cook and cool rice
• Sharp chef’s knife – for chopping vegetables and proteins
• Cutting board – a sturdy surface for prepping ingredients
• Measuring spoons and cups – for precise ingredient measurement
• Mixing bowls – to hold prepared ingredients and sauces
• Whisk or fork – for beating eggs
• Spatula or wooden spoon – for stirring and combining ingredients
• Fine-mesh sieve or colander – to rinse rice and drain excess water
• Cooking thermometer – optional, for ensuring shrimp and chicken are cooked to safe temperatures
• Serving plates or bowls – for presentation and serving
• Garnishing tools – such as a piping bag or squeeze bottle for sauces, if desired

Tags

• Indonesian cuisine
• Fried rice
• Seafood
• Chicken
• Spicy
• Street food
• Comfort food
• Asian flavors

Serving Size

This recipe yields approximately 4 generously sized servings, making it ideal for family dinners or small gatherings. Each serving provides a hearty portion that includes rice, proteins, vegetables, and garnishes, ensuring a balanced and satisfying meal.

Difficulty Level

This dish is categorized as moderate difficulty. It requires some preparation, such as cooking rice in advance and handling multiple ingredients, but the steps are straightforward. The key to success lies in mise en place—having all ingredients prepped and ready before you start stir-frying ensures a smooth cooking process and excellent flavor integration.

Allergen Information

Dietary Preferences

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soy sauce and check all ingredients for gluten content.
• Vegetarian: Substitute shrimp and chicken with tofu or tempeh, adjusting cooking times accordingly.
• Keto/Low Carb: Replace rice with cauliflower rice, adjusting seasoning and cooking time.

Course

Main Course – a complete, filling dish suitable for lunch or dinner.

Cuisine

Indonesian

Ingredients

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the bacon

Begin by heating a large wok or deep skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the bacon slices and cook until they become crispy and golden brown, approximately 4–5 minutes per side. Use tongs or a slotted spoon to remove the bacon from the skillet and drain on paper towels. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small bits, which will be used later as a garnish to add crunch and smoky flavor. The rendered bacon fat will be retained in the pan for flavoring the vegetables, so do not discard it.

Step 2: Sauté the vegetables

In the same skillet, retaining about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat for flavor, add the diced red onion, celery, and carrots. Stir-fry these for about 3–4 minutes until they start to soften and release their aroma. Next, add the minced garlic, sliced mushrooms, and sliced green onion. Continue stir-frying for an additional 2–3 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still vibrant, and the garlic is fragrant. This process enhances the depth of flavor, ensuring the vegetables are well-cooked but not mushy.

Step 3: Build the flavor profile

To create the characteristic umami and spicy notes of Nasi Goreng, add the soy sauce, fish sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, white pepper, curry powder, and sambal oelek to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, ensuring that the vegetables are coated evenly with the sauce mixture. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 1–2 minutes, which helps the flavors meld and develop complexity. This step is crucial for achieving the signature taste of the dish.

Step 4: Incorporate the rice

Gently fold in the cooled, cooked basmati rice, breaking up any clumps with your spatula to ensure even distribution of the sauce and seasonings. Carefully stir to coat each grain thoroughly, which imparts flavor and ensures that the rice absorbs the aromatic sauces. Maintain low heat to keep the rice warm without overcooking it or turning it mushy. This step is vital for achieving a fluffy, well-seasoned fried rice.

Step 5: Cook the shrimp

In a separate skillet, heat about 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper. Sauté the shrimp for approximately 2–3 minutes per side until they turn pink and are cooked through. The shrimp should be tender but firm. Once cooked, transfer them to the rice mixture and gently fold to combine, allowing the flavors to meld further.

Step 6: Prepare the egg strips

Using the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil. Pour in the beaten eggs, tilting the pan to spread the eggs thinly across the surface. Cook until the eggs are just set, about 1–2 minutes. Carefully flip or fold the eggs to finish cooking. Transfer the cooked omelet to a cutting board and slice into thin strips. These strips will serve as a savory garnish that adds texture and richness to the dish.

Step 7: Final assembly and serving

Ensure the rice mixture is heated thoroughly, stirring gently to distribute heat evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary—adding more soy sauce or sambal oelek for heat. Plate the Nasi Goreng onto individual serving dishes, garnishing each with the crispy bacon bits, sliced green onions, chopped cilantro, and egg strips. Serve hot, accompanied by additional chili paste or lime wedges for an extra zing. Encourage guests to mix in the garnishes to enjoy the full spectrum of flavors and textures.

Preparation Tips

• Use day-old rice: For optimal texture, cook the rice a day before and store it in the refrigerator. Fresh rice tends to be softer and can result in a mushier dish.
• Prep all ingredients beforehand: Chop vegetables, measure sauces, and prepare proteins before beginning to stir-fry to ensure a smooth cooking process.
• Adjust spiciness: Increase the sambal oelek or add chili flakes if you prefer a spicier dish.
• Customize proteins: Swap shrimp and chicken for tofu or tempeh to cater to vegetarian preferences.
• Enhance flavor: Consider adding a dash of lime juice or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for extra depth.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• High heat stir-frying: Use high heat to quickly cook ingredients, which imparts a smoky flavor characteristic of authentic Nasi Goreng.
• Layer flavors: Add a splash of fish sauce at the end of cooking for an extra umami boost.
• Egg garnish: For a visually appealing presentation, consider creating decorative egg patterns or scrambled eggs instead of strips.
• Presentation: Serve the dish in banana leaf-lined bowls or traditional Indonesian plates for an authentic experience.

Add-ons and Variations

• Vegetables: Add peas, bean sprouts, or bamboo shoots for additional crunch and freshness.
• Spice levels: Incorporate sliced fresh chilies or a drizzle of chili oil for more heat.
• Herbs: Garnish with Thai basil, mint, or additional cilantro for a burst of herbal aroma.
• Side dishes: Serve with Indonesian-style acar (pickled vegetables), satay skewers, or spicy sambal for a complete meal experience.

Side Dishes

Elevate your Nasi Goreng with complementary sides such as:

• Indonesian acar (pickled vegetables)
• Satay skewers with peanut sauce
• Fresh cucumber and tomato salad
• Steamed vegetables with sambal
• Indonesian-style fried plantains

Improvements and Customizations

• Flavor depth: Incorporate additional seasonings like toasted coriander or lemongrass for a more complex flavor profile.
• Texture variations: Add crushed peanuts or fried shallots on top for crunch.
• Vegetarian version: Use tofu or tempeh, marinated with soy sauce and spices, as a protein alternative.
• Health-conscious modifications: Reduce oil or use avocado oil for cooking, and opt for low-sodium sauces.

Save and Store

Any leftovers should be cooled to room temperature within two hours of cooking, then stored in airtight containers. Reheat in a wok or skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to revive moisture. For best results, consume within 2–3 days. To freeze, portion the rice into freezer-safe containers, and reheat thoroughly before serving.

FAQ

Can I make Nasi Goreng vegetarian?

Absolutely. Substitute shrimp and chicken with plant-based proteins like tofu, tempeh, or mushrooms. Adjust cooking times accordingly, and season well to maintain the umami flavor.

What rice is best for Nasi Goreng?

Day-old basmati or jasmine rice works best, as it’s firm and less sticky, which prevents mushiness during stir-frying. Freshly cooked rice is acceptable but may require a longer cooling period to achieve optimal texture.

How spicy can I make Nasi Goreng?

You can increase the amount of sambal oelek or add fresh chopped chilies. For a milder version, reduce or omit the chili paste. Always taste and adjust seasoning gradually.

Is it necessary to cook the rice in advance?

Yes, using cooked and cooled rice is critical for achieving the characteristic fried rice texture. Fresh rice tends to clump and become mushy when stir-fried.

What are some authentic garnishes for Nasi Goreng?

Fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, crispy fried shallots, and a squeeze of lime enhance both flavor and presentation, adding bright, fresh notes.

Conclusion

Embarking on the journey to master Nasi Goreng at home offers a rewarding culinary adventure filled with bold flavors, delightful textures, and cultural richness. By combining aromatic spices, tender proteins, and perfectly cooked rice, you create a dish that’s both comforting and exciting. Remember to prep thoroughly, cook with high heat, and customize to your taste preferences to make this iconic Indonesian fried rice truly your own. For more authentic recipes, cooking tips, and culinary inspiration, visit Love With Recipes—your ultimate platform for flavorful home cooking.

References

• Saveur: Authentic Nasi Goreng Recipe
• Indonesian Recipes: Nasi Goreng