Nasi goreng or Indonesian fried rice

Nasi goreng or Indonesian fried rice is one of the most requested recipes on Rasa Malaysia. I have received many emails from readers requesting for a nasi goreng recipe. For those who are anxiously awaiting a nasi goreng post, wait no more as I have gotten just the perfect nasi goreng recipe for you.
Adapted from James Oseland’s Cradle of Flavor coobook—a bible for authentic Indonesian and Malaysian/Singapore cuisines—this nasi goreng is the Javanese version of fried rice. As Jim indicated in his cookbook, a truly authentic nasi goreng Indonesia is plain and simple, consisting of leftover rice stir-fried with a flavoring paste. Ingredients such as shrimp, meat, and vegetables are rarely, if ever, added to it.

While nasi goreng is available in Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore, the Indonesian version is my favorite. Topped with a fried egg (a distinctive note of Indonesian’s version), nasi goreng is a meal that is both hearty and gratifying. Making nasi goreng also reminded me of my fond memories while traveling in Indonesia—a country with vibrant and colorful culinary traditions which I intend to explore more in the near future.