Nasi goreng - Indonesia

Nasi Goreng - A Flavorful Culinary Journey

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Number of servings: 2

If you are looking for a quick and delicious recipe, Nasi Goreng, an iconic dish of Indonesian cuisine, is the perfect solution! This savory fried rice dish with chicken breast and vegetables is not only a culinary delight but also an explosion of flavors that will take you on a gastronomic journey. Nasi Goreng is often prepared with fresh ingredients and is customizable to suit your tastes.

A bit of history

Nasi Goreng, which means "fried rice," has deep roots in Indonesia's culinary traditions. It is believed to have evolved from Chinese cooking techniques and has been adapted and enriched with local ingredients over time. Every family has its own recipe, making this dish unique. It is usually served as a main meal, but you can enjoy it anytime, whether for lunch or dinner.

Necessary ingredients

To prepare this delight, you will need the following ingredients for 2 servings:

- 1 cup of rice (preferably long-grain rice, cooked a day before)
- 300 g chicken breast, diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 5 green onions, sliced
- 5 cloves of garlic, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 pinch of turmeric
- 2 cups oyster mushrooms, sliced
- 1 green chili, sliced (or chili, to taste)
- 1 red chili, sliced
- 3 tablespoons dark soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 12 shrimp, peeled
- 1 tablespoon chili sauce
- 2 eggs
- A few chives for garnish

Practical tips about ingredients

- Rice: It is important to use pre-cooked rice, preferably left in the fridge overnight. This helps remove excess moisture and gives it the perfect texture after frying.
- Chicken breast: Choose fresh, skinless chicken breast for better flavor. You can substitute chicken with tofu for a delicious vegetarian option.
- Mushrooms: Oyster mushrooms are ideal due to their texture, but you can also use champignon or shiitake mushrooms, depending on your preference.
- Soy sauce: Dark soy sauce provides a deep flavor and beautiful color to the dish. If you prefer a less salty option, you can opt for light soy sauce.

Preparing Nasi Goreng - Step by Step

1. Cooking the rice: Start by boiling the rice. Add a quantity of water with a pinch of salt and let it boil. Once cooked, drain the rice in a colander and let it cool. Ideally, leave it in the fridge overnight for the best results.

2. Cooking the chicken: Heat a wok over high heat and add the diced chicken breast. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and fully cooked. Then, add the chopped onion and garlic cloves, continuing to cook for another 2-3 minutes.

3. Adding flavors: Once the onion becomes translucent, add the grated ginger, turmeric, and mushrooms. Cook over high heat until the mushrooms release their juices and the mixture becomes fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

4. Incorporating the rice: Add the cold rice to the pan, mixing well to combine all the ingredients. At this point, add the chili, dark soy sauce, and sugar. Stir everything together in a culinary dance to achieve a homogeneous consistency. Check the taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.

5. Cooking the shrimp: In a separate pan, add a cube of butter and a tablespoon of oil. When hot, add the shrimp and cook quickly on each side, about 2-3 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and drizzle with chili sauce for an extra kick.

6. Cooking the eggs: In the same pan or another, fry the eggs sunny-side up, leaving the yolk runny. This will add a creamy texture to the dish.

7. Serving: On plates, serve the Nasi Goreng, top with the fried egg, and garnish with shrimp and chopped chives. You can also add a few slices of lemon or lime for a touch of freshness.

Delicious variations

- Veggie Nasi Goreng: Use tofu instead of chicken and include vegetables like carrots, peas, and bell peppers for a vegetarian version.
- Nasi Goreng with eggs: Add beaten eggs to the rice mixture for extra flavor and a richer texture.
- Nasi Goreng with fish: Replace the shrimp with fried fish or salted fish fillets for another layer of taste.

Perfect combinations

Nasi Goreng pairs perfectly with a fresh vegetable salad or a peanut sauce for a pleasant contrast of textures and flavors. Additionally, a cold drink, such as fruit tea or a tropical smoothie, will perfectly complement the meal.

Nutritional benefits

This recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious. The whole grain rice used is an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, the chicken breast provides lean protein, and the vegetables contribute vitamins and minerals. Shrimp are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use freshly cooked rice?
While you can, it is recommended to use pre-cooked rice to avoid a sticky mixture.

2. What other types of meat can I use?
Besides chicken, you can use pork, beef, or even duck, depending on your preferences.

3. How can I adapt the recipe for a vegan diet?
Simply! Use tofu or tempeh instead of meat and omit the eggs while keeping the vegetables and spices.

4. What is the best way to store leftovers?
Store Nasi Goreng in airtight containers in the fridge and consume within the next 2-3 days.

In conclusion, Nasi Goreng is a quick, simple, and flavorful recipe, perfect for any occasion. Whether you are cooking for yourself or for loved ones, this dish will surely bring a touch of joy to your table. So, don’t hesitate and prepare your own Nasi Goreng at home!