Authentic Indonesian Nasi Goreng Recipe – Traditional Fried Rice

Indonesian Nasi Goreng – Indonesian Nasi Goreng is Indonesia’s most famous culinary export and a beloved comfort food across Southeast Asia. Literally translating to “fried rice,” Nasi Goreng is much more than just a way to use leftover rice — it’s a flavorful, aromatic, and deeply satisfying dish that captures the heart of Indonesian home cooking.

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Recipe Overview

• Cuisine: Indonesian / Southeast Asian

• Course: Main Course

• Servings: 4

• Calories: 480 kcal per serving

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Active Time: 20 minutes

• Resting Time: 5 minutes

• Total Time: 40 minutes

• Difficulty Level: Easy

Equipment

• Wok or large frying pan

• Wooden spatula or spoon

• Mixing bowl

• Knife and cutting board

• Small bowl for sauce mixture

Ingredients

For the Fried Rice:

• 3 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old)

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil or peanut oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 shallots, finely chopped

• 1 small red chili, finely sliced (optional for heat)

• ½ cup cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu (optional protein)

• 1 carrot, finely diced

• 2 tbsp sweet soy sauce (kecap manis)

• 1 tbsp soy sauce

• 1 tsp shrimp paste (terasi), toasted (optional)

• 2 eggs, lightly beaten

• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Serving:

• Fried eggs (sunny side up)

• Sliced cucumber and tomato

• Fried shallots

• Lime wedges

• Prawn crackers (krupuk)

Nutrition

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

If using freshly cooked rice, spread it out on a tray and let it cool completely before using. Ideally, use day-old rice from the fridge — this ensures that the grains stay firm and don’t clump together during frying.

Step 2: Make the Spice Base

In a small mortar and pestle or food processor, grind together garlic, shallots, and chili until you form a coarse paste. This spice paste is the flavor foundation of authentic Indonesian Nasi Goreng.

Step 3: Cook the Aromatics

Heat the oil in a wok or large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the spice paste and shrimp paste (if using). Stir-fry for 1–2 minutes until fragrant — you should smell the rich aroma of garlic and shallots filling the air.

Step 4: Add the Protein and Vegetables

Add the diced carrot and your choice of protein (chicken, shrimp, or tofu). Stir-fry until the vegetables are slightly tender and the protein is heated through.

Step 5: Scramble the Eggs

Push the ingredients to one side of the wok. Pour the beaten eggs into the empty side and scramble them gently until just set. Mix the scrambled eggs with the rest of the ingredients.

Step 6: Add the Rice

Add the cooked rice to the wok. Break up any clumps with your spatula and toss everything together, making sure the rice is evenly coated with the spices and oil.

Step 7: Season and Sauce

Pour in kecap manis (sweet soy sauce) and regular soy sauce. Stir-fry for another 3–4 minutes, ensuring that every grain of rice absorbs the sauce and becomes beautifully caramelized. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 8: Serve

Remove from heat and transfer the fried rice to plates. Top each serving with a fried egg and garnish with fried shallots. Serve alongside fresh cucumber, tomato slices, lime wedges, and prawn crackers for that classic Indonesian touch.

Tips for the Perfect Indonesian Nasi Goreng

• Use day-old rice: This ensures the best texture — fresh rice tends to be too moist and sticky.

• Control the heat: Cook on medium-high for that slight smoky wok hei flavor.

• Don’t skip kecap manis: This sweet soy sauce is the signature flavor of Nasi Goreng. If unavailable, you can mix soy sauce with a bit of brown sugar or honey as a substitute.

• Customize your protein: Chicken, shrimp, beef, or even tempeh can be used depending on your preference.

• Add toppings: Fried shallots, lime juice, and prawn crackers add texture and freshness.

Conclusion

Indonesian Nasi Goreng is the ultimate comfort food — simple to make yet bursting with deep, complex flavors that represent Indonesia’s rich culinary tradition. It transforms humble ingredients like rice and soy sauce into a vibrant, satisfying dish that’s both versatile and universally loved.