Nasi Goreng - Stir-Fried rice with chicken and shrimp

Nasi Goreng – Fried Rice with Chicken and Shrimp

Nasi Goreng, a term meaning "fried rice", is a true culinary symbol of Indonesia, being such a popular dish that it is even served for breakfast. It is a versatile dish that can be adapted with various ingredients, from fresh vegetables and varied proteins to savory sauces. In short, Nasi Goreng is a perfect example of how a simple recipe can become a true feast, and today I will guide you step by step in making this delight!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients

- 250 g rice (preferably parboiled or long-grain)
- 250 g shrimp (cooked or fresh)
- 250 g chicken thighs (cut into cubes)
- 5 tablespoons peanut oil (to add flavor and taste)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for the omelet)
- 2 cloves garlic (finely chopped)
- 1 large onion (chopped)
- 1 teaspoon curry (for an exotic taste)
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika (for a sweet and colorful note)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (the main source of salt)
- 150 ml tomato puree (ideally homemade)
- 2 eggs (for the omelet)

Preparing the rice

1. Start by boiling a pot of water. If you have chicken broth, it’s an excellent choice for boiling the rice, giving it an even richer flavor.
2. Once the water is boiling, add the rice and boil for about 10 minutes. It is important not to overcook it, so pay attention to the cooking time!
3. After the rice is cooked, drain it and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Let it drain and cool.

Preparing the ingredients

4. While the rice cools, finely chop the onion, garlic, and, if desired, the chili pepper. These fresh ingredients will add flavor and texture to the dish.
5. Heat a wok over medium heat and add the 5 tablespoons of peanut oil. This is the secret to a delicious Nasi Goreng!
6. Add the mixture of onion, garlic, and chili. Sauté until golden and fragrant.

Cooking the proteins

7. When the vegetables start to color, add the chicken cubes. Fry for a few minutes until cooked evenly.
8. Now it’s time to add the shrimp. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until they turn pink and are well cooked.

Adding the spices

9. Add curry, sweet paprika, and tomato puree. If you prefer, you can use fresh tomatoes, peeled and seeded, for an even fresher taste.
10. Before letting the mixture simmer, add the soy sauce. This will add a salty note and rich flavor.

Combining the ingredients

11. Add the cooked rice to the wok and mix everything well so that the flavors combine perfectly. Cook for a few more minutes, stirring constantly.

Preparing the omelet

12. In a separate pan, heat a tablespoon of olive oil. Beat the two eggs with a pinch of salt and pour them into the pan.
13. Let the omelet cook for about a minute on one side until it turns golden, then flip it with the help of a lid or spatula. Cook the other side for a minute, then remove the omelet onto a wooden board.
14. Let the omelet cool slightly, then roll it up and cut it into thin strips.

Serving

15. Add the omelet strips to the wok, gently mixing to incorporate them into the fried rice.
16. Serve Nasi Goreng hot, garnished with slices of cucumber and fresh tomatoes, or even with a green salad. A great idea would be to serve it with a cold drink, such as lemon tea or fresh lemonade, to complete the culinary experience.

Helpful tips

- If you want a vegetarian version, you can replace the meat with tofu or vegetables of your choice.
- Experimenting with various sauces or spices can add extra flavor. Try sweet chili sauce for a more intense taste!
- Make sure to use the right rice; parboiled rice is ideal for achieving the perfect texture without sticking.

Nutritional information

This Nasi Goreng recipe contains protein from chicken and shrimp, carbohydrates from rice, and a variety of vitamins and minerals from vegetables. One serving has approximately 600 calories, a good source of energy, perfect for a hearty meal.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use leftover rice?
Yes, leftover rice from a previous meal is perfect for Nasi Goreng as it will have a better texture.

2. Is Nasi Goreng spicy?
The level of spiciness depends on the amount of chili you add. You can adjust the recipe to your preferences.

3. Can I replace soy sauce?
Yes, you can use low-sodium soy sauce or teriyaki sauce for a sweeter version.

Nasi Goreng is more than just a dish; it is a culinary experience, a taste journey that will transport you to the vibrant streets of Indonesia. So put on your chef's clothes, prepare your ingredients, and enjoy every step of this culinary adventure!