Javanese Nasi Goreng: A Flavorful Indonesian Fried Rice Dish
Nasi Goreng is a classic Indonesian fried rice dish that’s packed with bold and tantalizing flavors. This Javanese twist on the traditional meal incorporates a rich medley of authentic spices, protein, and vegetables, making it a complete and satisfying meal. The unique combination of sweet soy sauce and shrimp paste gives this dish its distinctive taste that keeps you coming back for more.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups of cooked and chilled jasmine rice
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 red chili, finely chopped (optional for extra heat)
- 1 chicken breast, thinly sliced
- 200 grams shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 4 tablespoons kecap manis (sweet soy sauce)
- 1 tablespoon shrimp paste
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, and corn)
- Spring onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Fried shallots (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (to serve)
Instructions:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large wok or frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Add the garlic, onion, and red chili (if using) and sauté until fragrant and the onion is translucent.
- Add the chicken breast slices and cook until they’re no longer pink. Then, add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink and opaque.
- Push the meat and vegetables to one side of the pan and pour the beaten eggs into the other side. Scramble the eggs until they are just set.
- Add the chilled jasmine rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir everything together thoroughly.
- In a small bowl, mix together the kecap manis, shrimp paste, ground coriander, and cumin. Pour this sauce over the rice and continue to stir-fry until the rice is evenly coated and heated through.
- Add the mixed vegetables and cook for another 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and everything is well combined.
- Serve the Nasi Goreng hot, garnished with chopped spring onions and fried shallots. Add a lime wedge on the side to squeeze over the top before eating.
Enjoy your authentic Javanese Nasi Goreng, a delightful journey through Indonesian cuisine!