Delicious and Easy Nasi Goreng Recipe You Can Make at Home

Nasi goreng is one of Indonesia’s most beloved dishes. It’s flavorful, comforting, and surprisingly simple to prepare in your own kitchen. If you’ve ever wanted to recreate this iconic fried rice at home but felt unsure where to start, this easy nasi goreng recipe will guide you step-by-step. You’ll learn how to balance the right ingredients and techniques to make a dish that tastes just like the street food stalls or family kitchens you love.

What You Need to Make Nasi Goreng

Before you start cooking, gather these essential ingredients. Most are common pantry staples, and you can customize the recipe based on what you have:

• Cooked rice (preferably a day old, so it’s less sticky)

• Garlic and shallots, finely chopped

• Chili (fresh or chili paste) for heat

• Sweet soy sauce (kecap manis) for that signature sweet and savory flavor

• Eggs to scramble or fry on top

• Protein such as chicken, shrimp, or tofu (optional)

• Vegetables like carrots, peas, or green onions for color and crunch

• Oil for frying (vegetable or peanut oil works well)

• Salt and pepper to taste

  
  

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Nasi Goreng

1. Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by chopping garlic, shallots, and chili finely. If you’re using protein, cut it into bite-sized pieces. Have your cooked rice ready and break up any clumps with a fork. This preparation makes the cooking process smooth and quick.

2. Heat the Pan and Sauté Aromatics

Heat a wok or large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add a couple of tablespoons of oil. Once hot, add garlic, shallots, and chili. Stir-fry for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not burnt. This step builds the base flavor for your nasi goreng.

3. Cook the Protein and Vegetables

Add your chosen protein to the pan. Stir-fry until cooked through and lightly browned. Then toss in any vegetables you want to include. Stir everything together for another 2-3 minutes. This adds texture and nutrition to the dish.

4. Add the Rice and Seasonings

Add the rice to the pan. Use a spatula to break it apart and mix it well with the aromatics, protein, and vegetables. Pour in sweet soy sauce (kecap manis) and stir thoroughly to coat the rice evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep stir-frying for 3-5 minutes until the rice is heated through and slightly caramelized.

5. Cook the Eggs

You can either scramble the eggs directly in the pan by pushing the rice to one side and cooking the eggs on the other, then mixing them together. Or fry the eggs separately and serve them on top of the nasi goreng. The runny yolk adds richness and a beautiful presentation.

Nasi goreng siap disajikan dengan telur mata sapi dan hiasan sayuran segar

Tips to Make Your Nasi Goreng Even Better

• Use day-old rice because fresh rice tends to be too moist and clumps together. Leftover rice dries out slightly, making it perfect for frying.

  
  

• Adjust the spice level by adding more or less chili according to your taste. You can also use sambal for extra heat.

  
  

• Experiment with different proteins or keep it vegetarian with tofu and extra vegetables.

  
  

• Add a splash of lime juice or a sprinkle of fried shallots before serving for extra flavor and crunch.

  
  

• Serve with acar (pickled vegetables) or kerupuk (Indonesian crackers) for an authentic touch.

  
  

Why This Nasi Goreng Recipe Works for You

This recipe is designed to be straightforward and flexible. You don’t need special equipment or hard-to-find ingredients. The method focuses on layering flavors and textures so every bite is satisfying. Whether you want a quick lunch or a comforting dinner, this nasi goreng recipe fits your schedule and taste buds.

By following these steps, you’ll create a dish that brings the warmth and flavor of Indonesian street food right into your home kitchen. It’s a great way to enjoy a classic meal with family or friends, and you can easily adjust it to suit your preferences.