Nasi Goreng

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Nasi Goreng is the perfect comfort food—packed with flavor, easy to make, and versatile. You can enjoy it with a variety of proteins, from chicken and shrimp to tofu, making it adaptable for different dietary preferences. The combination of soy sauce, garlic, shallots, and a touch of sweetness from the ketchup or palm sugar makes the dish irresistibly delicious. The crispy fried egg on top adds a rich, creamy texture that makes every bite a treat. Whether you’re craving something savory or spicy, Nasi Goreng is guaranteed to hit the spot.

Ingredients

For the fried rice:

• 3 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old rice for the best texture)

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 shallots, finely chopped

• 1 small carrot, finely diced

• 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional)

• 1/2 cup cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu, chopped into bite-sized pieces (optional)

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon sweet soy sauce (kecap manis, optional)

• 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)

• 1 teaspoon ground white pepper (or black pepper)

• 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes or fresh chopped chili (optional, for heat)

For garnish:

• 2 fried eggs (optional but traditional)

• Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

• Sliced cucumber or tomato (optional, for serving)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the ingredients: If you haven’t already, cook the rice and let it cool, ideally overnight in the refrigerator, so that the grains firm up and don’t become too soft when fried. Prepare the vegetables, protein (if using), and sauces in advance.

2. Cook the vegetables: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and shallots, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened.

3. Add the protein and vegetables: Stir in the diced carrots and peas (if using), and cook for another 2-3 minutes. If you’re adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu, add them now and stir to combine.

4. Fry the rice: Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps. Stir well to coat the rice with the oil and mix in the vegetables and protein. Cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the rice to get slightly crispy on the bottom.

5. Season the rice: Add the soy sauce, sweet soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and ground pepper to the rice. Stir everything well to ensure the rice is evenly coated with the seasonings. If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in the chili flakes or chopped fresh chili at this point. Taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary.

6. Fry the eggs: In a separate pan, heat a little oil over medium heat and crack the eggs in, frying them sunny-side up or to your preferred doneness. A runny yolk is traditional and adds richness to the dish.

7. Serve: Once the rice is cooked and flavorful, plate the Nasi Goreng. Top each serving with a fried egg, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve with sliced cucumber or tomato for added freshness. You can also add some sambal or extra chili sauce for more heat if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Nasi Goreng: Omit the meat or shrimp and add extra vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms, for a vegetarian version.

• Spicy Nasi Goreng: Increase the amount of fresh chili or chili flakes for a spicier version of this dish. You can also serve it with chili sauce on the side.

• Nasi Goreng with Satay: For a more indulgent meal, serve your Nasi Goreng with satay skewers (grilled meat on sticks with peanut sauce).

• Nasi Goreng with Pineapple: Add some chopped pineapple for a sweet and savory variation.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover Nasi Goreng can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavor improves the next day as the spices have more time to meld together.

• Reheating: Reheat the Nasi Goreng in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to prevent it from drying out. Alternatively, you can microwave individual servings.

FAQs

1. Can I use freshly cooked rice for Nasi Goreng?

While it’s possible to use freshly cooked rice, day-old rice works best as it’s less sticky and fries up better. If you use freshly cooked rice, spread it out on a baking sheet and let it cool before using it in the recipe.

2. Can I make Nasi Goreng without sweet soy sauce (kecap manis)?

Sweet soy sauce (kecap manis) is a key ingredient in traditional Nasi Goreng, giving it a rich, sweet flavor. If you don’t have it, you can substitute with a mixture of regular soy sauce and a bit of brown sugar or honey.

3. Can I make Nasi Goreng in advance?

Nasi Goreng is best when served fresh, but you can make the rice and store it in the fridge for a day ahead. Then, when ready to serve, simply fry it up with the vegetables, meat, and seasonings.

4. How do I make my Nasi Goreng spicier?

You can make your Nasi Goreng spicier by adding more fresh chili, chili flakes, or chili sauce. Adjust the spice level to your preference.

5. Can I add other proteins to Nasi Goreng?

Yes, you can add various proteins like pork, beef, or tofu. If you’re using raw meat, ensure it’s cooked through before adding it to the fried rice.

6. Can I make a vegetarian version of Nasi Goreng?

Yes, just omit the meat and add more vegetables or tofu. It’s easy to make a vegetarian version of Nasi Goreng while still keeping the flavors rich and satisfying.

7. What can I serve with Nasi Goreng?

Nasi Goreng is typically served on its own or with a fried egg on top. It also pairs well with side dishes like pickled vegetables, fried plantains, or satay skewers.

8. Can I freeze Nasi Goreng?

Yes, Nasi Goreng can be frozen for up to 1-2 months. Be sure to let it cool before transferring to an airtight container or freezer bag. When reheating, add a little soy sauce or water to prevent it from drying out.

9. Can I use brown rice for Nasi Goreng?

Yes, you can use brown rice, but it will change the texture slightly, as brown rice takes longer to cook and has a firmer texture. Make sure to use fully cooked and cooled brown rice.

10. How do I make the rice less oily?

To reduce the oiliness, use less oil when frying the rice and vegetables. You can also opt for a non-stick pan, which helps reduce the amount of oil needed.

Conclusion

Nasi Goreng is the ultimate fried rice dish—flavorful, aromatic, and incredibly satisfying. With its perfect balance of savory, spicy, and slightly sweet flavors, Nasi Goreng is a versatile meal that can be enjoyed any time of the day. Whether you make it with chicken, shrimp, or vegetables, it’s a one-pot dish that’s sure to delight your taste buds. So fire up the wok, gather your ingredients, and enjoy a delicious plate of Nasi Goreng that’s guaranteed to bring the flavors of Indonesia straight to your table!