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15 Delicious Malaysian Rice Dishes You Must Try

Malaysian rice dishes are a delicious blend of flavors and cultures, showcasing local ingredients and time-honored recipes. From savory curries to fragrant fried rice, these meals are staples in households and street markets alike. Get ready to explore some beloved favorites that capture the essence of Malaysia’s vibrant culinary scene!

malaysian rice recipes 1

Nasi Ulam

A plate of Nasi Ulam featuring rice, herbs, and colorful vegetables.

Nasi Ulam is a fragrant Malaysian rice dish that’s a refreshing twist on traditional rice meals. Packed with fresh herbs and spices, it offers a light, zesty flavor that’s perfect for warm weather. This dish is not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making it a great option for both novice and experienced cooks.

The combination of rice with a variety of herbs like mint and basil, along with additional veggies and spices, creates a delightful medley of flavors. Perfect as a side dish or a light meal, Nasi Ulam is a staple in Malaysian cuisine, showcasing the vibrant ingredients of the region.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped mint leaves
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped basil leaves
  • 1/4 cup shredded coconut (toasted)
  • 1/4 cup chopped cucumber
  • 1/4 cup chopped red onion
  • 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Rice: Start with cooked jasmine rice, preferably cold and day-old, as it helps in achieving the right texture.
  2. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rice, mint, basil, toasted coconut, cucumber, red onion, and cherry tomatoes.
  3. Dress the Salad: In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, fish sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper. Pour this dressing over the rice mixture and toss gently to combine.
  4. Serve: Adjust seasoning if necessary and serve chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy this vibrant dish on its own or as a side!

Nasi Kandar

A plate of Nasi Kandar featuring rice, curry, and side dishes.

Nasi Kandar is a beloved Malaysian dish known for its rich flavors and hearty portions. This dish typically consists of steamed rice served with various curries and side dishes, offering a delightful mix of tastes and textures. The combination of spicy and savory elements makes it a favorite among locals and visitors alike, and it’s surprisingly easy to prepare at home.

The beauty of Nasi Kandar lies in its versatility. You can customize it with your preferred curries, proteins, and vegetables, making each serving unique. The result is a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed any time of the day!

Ingredients

  • 2 cups long-grain rice
  • 1 lb chicken or beef, cut into pieces
  • 2 tablespoons curry powder
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups coconut milk
  • 1 tablespoon oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Assorted side dishes (fried tofu, boiled eggs, vegetables)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Rice: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Cook it according to your preferred method, either in a rice cooker or on the stovetop.
  2. Prepare the Curry: In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Sauté onions and garlic until fragrant. Add the curry powder and stir for a minute.
  3. Add Meat: Add chicken or beef and cook until browned. Pour in coconut milk and season with salt. Let it simmer for about 20-30 minutes until the meat is tender.
  4. Serve: On a plate, mound the rice and ladle the curry over it. Add your choice of side dishes for a complete meal.

Nasi Campur

A colorful plate of Nasi Campur with rice, assorted meats, vegetables, and sauces.

Nasi Campur is a beloved Malaysian dish that brings together a delightful mix of flavors and textures. This dish features a generous serving of steamed rice paired with various side dishes, each bringing its own unique taste. It’s a feast for the senses, offering everything from spicy sambal to tender meats and crunchy vegetables.

Making Nasi Campur is quite simple, making it a perfect choice for both newcomers to Malaysian cuisine and seasoned cooks. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility; you can customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand, whether it’s grilled meats, tofu, or a variety of vegetables.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups of basmati rice
  • 1/4 cup of coconut milk
  • 1 cup of assorted vegetables (carrots, green beans, etc.)
  • 200g chicken, beef, or tofu, cooked
  • 1/2 cup sambal or chili sauce
  • 2 boiled eggs
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Rice: Rinse the basmati rice until the water runs clear. In a pot, combine the rice with coconut milk and water (as per the rice package instructions). Add salt to taste. Cook until the rice is fluffy and fully cooked.
  2. Cook the Vegetables: In a pan, sauté the assorted vegetables in a bit of oil until tender. Season with a pinch of salt.
  3. Prepare the Proteins: Cook your choice of chicken, beef, or tofu. You can grill, stir-fry, or oven-bake them with your favorite seasonings.
  4. Assemble the Dish: On a large plate, place a serving of rice in the center. Arrange the cooked vegetables and protein around the rice. Add boiled eggs and a side of sambal for dipping.
  5. Garnish: Top the dish with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy!

Nasi Lemak

A plate of Nasi Lemak with rice, sambal, anchovies, peanuts, boiled eggs, and cucumber.

Nasi Lemak is a beloved Malaysian dish that’s rich in flavor and culture. This traditional meal features fragrant rice cooked in coconut milk, giving it a creamy texture and a hint of sweetness. It’s usually served with spicy sambal, crunchy anchovies, peanuts, boiled eggs, and cucumber slices, creating a delightful mix of tastes and textures.

This dish is not only delicious but also simple to make at home. With just a few key ingredients, you can whip up a plate of Nasi Lemak that will impress your family and friends. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast or lunch, it’s a satisfying meal that will leave you wanting more!

Ingredients

  • 2 cups jasmine rice
  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons sambal (spicy chili paste)
  • 1/2 cup fried anchovies
  • 1/2 cup roasted peanuts
  • 2 boiled eggs, halved
  • 1 cucumber, sliced

Instructions

  1. Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
  2. In a pot, combine the rice, coconut milk, water, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Cook for about 15-20 minutes until the rice is fluffy and cooked through.
  3. While the rice is cooking, prepare the sambal by mixing chili paste with a little water in a pan over medium heat. Cook for 5-10 minutes until fragrant.
  4. To serve, plate the rice and top it with sambal, fried anchovies, peanuts, boiled eggs, and cucumber slices. Enjoy your homemade Nasi Lemak!

Nasi Goreng

A colorful plate of Nasi Goreng with shrimp, vegetables, and a fried egg on top.

Nasi Goreng is a beloved Malaysian fried rice dish that’s packed with flavor and a hint of spice. It’s a delightful combination of fragrant rice, fresh vegetables, and proteins like shrimp or chicken, topped off with a perfectly fried egg. The balance of sweet, savory, and slightly spicy flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser, and it’s surprisingly easy to whip up in no time!

This dish can be customized to suit your taste, whether you like it mild or with a kick. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a hearty brunch, Nasi Goreng brings comfort and satisfaction with every bite. Let’s dive into making this delicious meal!

Ingredients

  • 4 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old)
  • 200g shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 100g chicken breast, diced
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 carrot, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sweet soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon chili paste (adjust to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 4 eggs
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, sauté until fragrant.
  2. Stir in the chicken and shrimp, cooking until they are fully cooked through.
  3. Add the carrot and red bell pepper, cooking for a few more minutes until tender.
  4. Introduce the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps. Pour in the soy sauce, sweet soy sauce, and chili paste; stir well to combine.
  5. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. In a separate pan, fry the eggs sunny-side up.
  7. Serve the Nasi Goreng hot, topped with a fried egg and garnished with green onions.

Nasi Tomato

A plate of Nasi Tomato served with cucumber slices and fried chicken.

Nasi Tomato is a delightful Malaysian rice dish that combines fragrant basmati rice with tomatoes and aromatic spices. The dish is known for its vibrant color and rich flavor, making it a favorite at gatherings and special occasions. It has a slightly tangy taste, complemented by the sweetness of the tomatoes, and is often served alongside fried chicken or other proteins.

This dish is relatively simple to prepare, making it accessible for both seasoned cooks and beginners. With its visually appealing presentation and delicious taste, Nasi Tomato is sure to impress anyone who tries it.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups basmati rice
  • 3 cups tomato puree
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ginger paste
  • 2 tablespoons ghee or vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 2 cardamom pods
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • Salt to taste
  • Chili peppers, chopped (optional)
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
  • Chicken or fish (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak it in water for 30 minutes, then drain.
  2. Heat ghee or oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add cumin seeds, cardamom pods, and cinnamon stick, cooking for a minute until fragrant.
  3. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute.
  4. Pour in the tomato puree and season with salt and chopped chili peppers, if using. Simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  5. Add the drained rice to the pot, followed by 3 cups of water. Stir gently to combine, then bring to a boil.
  6. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
  7. Fluff the rice with a fork and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro.
  8. Serve warm with fried chicken or your choice of protein on the side.

Nasi Minyak

A plate of Nasi Minyak served with chicken curry and garnished with herbs.

Nasi Minyak is a fragrant and rich Malaysian rice dish, often served during special occasions. Its name translates to ‘oily rice,’ referring to the cooking method where rice is sautéed in ghee or cooking oil along with spices. The result is a fluffy and aromatic rice, making it the perfect companion to a variety of dishes.

This dish is known for its delightful taste, combining the savory notes of garlic, ginger, and spices with the subtle flavor of jasmine rice. It’s a simple recipe that can easily elevate your meal, whether for a festive gathering or a cozy dinner at home.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups jasmine rice
  • 4 cups water
  • 1/4 cup ghee or cooking oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-inch piece ginger, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 3-4 cardamom pods
  • 2-3 cloves
  • 1 bay leaf

Instructions

  1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then drain.
  2. In a large pot, heat the ghee or oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger, sautéing until fragrant.
  3. Add the rinsed rice to the pot, stirring to coat it in the oil and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
  4. Pour in the water, add salt, cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, cloves, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil.
  5. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and water is absorbed.
  6. Remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork. Serve warm with your favorite curry or side dishes.

Nasi Kerabu

A plate of vibrant blue rice garnished with herbs and cucumber, representing Nasi Kerabu.

Nasi Kerabu is a vibrant Malaysian rice dish known for its striking blue color, which comes from the butterfly pea flower. This dish is not only visually appealing but also offers a delightful mix of flavors, combining fragrant rice with fresh herbs, vegetables, and often served with protein like grilled fish or fried chicken. It’s a great option for those who enjoy a refreshing and aromatic meal.

The preparation of Nasi Kerabu is relatively simple, making it perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. The fusion of flavors and textures from the rice, herbs, and accompaniments creates a satisfying and wholesome dish that can be enjoyed at any time of the day.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups long-grain rice
  • 1 tablespoon dried butterfly pea flowers
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 4 cups water
  • 1/2 cup shredded coconut
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (mint, cilantro, and lemongrass)
  • 1/2 cucumber, diced
  • 2 green chilies, sliced
  • 1/2 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (optional)
  • Your choice of protein (grilled fish, fried chicken, or boiled eggs)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Rice: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a pot, bring the water to a boil and add the dried butterfly pea flowers. Let it steep for about 10 minutes to infuse the color.
  2. Add Rice: Strain the flower petals and add the rice to the water. Stir in the salt, cover, and cook on low heat for about 20 minutes or until the rice is fluffy and cooked through.
  3. Toast Coconut: In a dry pan, lightly toast the shredded coconut until golden brown and fragrant. Set aside.
  4. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooked rice with the chopped herbs, diced cucumber, and green chilies. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
  5. Serve: Plate the rice, sprinkle the toasted coconut on top, and add your choice of protein. Garnish with sesame seeds if desired.

Nasi Kuda

Nasi Kuda with fluffy rice and tender meat served with chili sauce.

Nasi Kuda is a delightful Malaysian dish that features fluffy white rice paired with tender meat, often accompanied by a zesty sauce. This meal is known for its simplicity and satisfaction, making it a popular choice for both casual dining and special occasions. The balance of flavors and textures makes each bite a treat!

Preparing Nasi Kuda is straightforward and doesn’t require complicated techniques. The rice is usually steamed to perfection, while the meat is marinated and cooked until it’s melt-in-your-mouth tender. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this dish is easy to whip up and sure to impress!

Ingredients

  • 2 cups of jasmine rice
  • 400g beef or chicken, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
  • 1 tablespoon chili sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Red chili slices for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Rice: Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain and then steam the rice in a rice cooker or on the stovetop until fluffy.
  2. Marinate the Meat: In a bowl, combine the sliced beef or chicken with soy sauce, oyster sauce, chili sauce, minced garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  3. Cook the Meat: Heat a pan over medium heat and add a little oil. Cook the marinated meat until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Serve: Plate the rice and top it with the cooked meat. Drizzle with extra chili sauce if desired, and garnish with red chili slices. Enjoy!

Nasi Prawn

A plate of Nasi Prawn featuring fragrant rice and grilled prawns garnished with lime and cilantro.

Nasi Prawn is a delightful Malaysian dish that combines the tenderness of shrimp with fragrant rice. It’s a fantastic option for seafood lovers who enjoy a burst of flavors. The dish is not only filling but also easy to make, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering.

The rice is typically cooked with spices and herbs, enhancing its taste while the prawns are grilled or sautéed to perfection. The balance of savory and slightly tangy notes from lime or lemon juice makes this dish truly refreshing. It’s a must-try recipe that will surely impress your family and friends!

Ingredients

  • 2 cups jasmine rice
  • 1 lb large prawns, cleaned and deveined
  • 4 cups water or seafood stock
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 lime, cut into wedges
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the Rice: Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a pot, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and ginger, sautéing until fragrant. Stir in the rice, turmeric, chili powder, and salt. Add the water or seafood stock, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes until the rice is fluffy.
  2. Prepare the Prawns: While the rice is cooking, season the prawns with salt and chili powder. Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat and cook the prawns for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are cooked through.
  3. Serve: Fluff the rice with a fork and serve on plates, topped with grilled prawns. Add lime wedges and garnish with fresh cilantro. Enjoy your delicious Nasi Prawn!

Nasi Daging

A plate of Nasi Daging featuring tender beef on rice with garnishes.

Nasi Daging is a beloved Malaysian dish that features tender beef cooked in a rich, savory sauce, served over a bed of fluffy white rice. The blend of spices creates a deep flavor that tantalizes the taste buds. It’s comforting and satisfying, making it a favorite for family meals or special occasions.

This dish is relatively simple to prepare and doesn’t require complicated techniques, making it perfect for both novice and experienced cooks. The end result is a hearty meal that’s sure to impress anyone at your dinner table!

Ingredients

  • 500g beef, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 cups jasmine rice
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
  • 1 tablespoon chili paste (optional)
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon cooking oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh herbs for garnish (like cilantro)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Rice: Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Cook according to package instructions, using water or beef broth for added flavor.
  2. Prepare the Beef: In a large skillet or pot, heat the cooking oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger, and sauté until fragrant.
  3. Brown the Beef: Add the beef pieces to the skillet. Cook until browned on all sides.
  4. Add Sauces: Stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and chili paste, coating the beef evenly. Pour in the beef broth, and bring the mixture to a simmer.
  5. Simmer: Let it cook for about 30-40 minutes, or until the beef is tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Serve: Scoop the cooked rice onto plates, top with the beef mixture, and garnish with fresh herbs. Enjoy!

Nasi Padu

A plate of Nasi Padu with rice, fried chicken, boiled eggs, cucumber, and sambal.

Nasi Padu is a delightful Malaysian rice dish that brings together a medley of flavors and textures. It features fluffy rice served with various sides, making it a filling and satisfying meal. The combination of savory proteins, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic seasonings creates a dish that’s both comforting and exciting.

Making Nasi Padu is quite simple, as it primarily revolves around cooking rice perfectly and pairing it with your choice of dishes. Whether you opt for fried chicken, spicy sambal, or a side of boiled eggs, this dish is versatile enough to cater to different tastes. It’s perfect for both casual meals and special gatherings.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups jasmine rice
  • 4 cups water or chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 2 pieces of fried chicken or your choice of protein
  • 1 cucumber, sliced
  • 2 boiled eggs
  • 1/2 cup sambal (spicy chili paste)
  • 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, and corn)

Instructions

  1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and makes the rice fluffier.
  2. In a pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the rinsed rice and stir for a minute to lightly toast it.
  3. Add the water or chicken broth and salt to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Cook for about 15-20 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
  4. While the rice cooks, prepare your proteins and vegetables. Fry the chicken or heat your choice of protein and set aside.
  5. Once the rice is done, fluff it with a fork and serve it on a plate. Arrange the fried chicken, boiled eggs, cucumber slices, and sambal around the rice. Add a serving of mixed vegetables for color and nutrition.

Nasi Lemak Rendang

A plate of Nasi Lemak Rendang with rice, beef rendang, boiled eggs, and garnishes.

Nasi Lemak Rendang is a beloved Malaysian dish that brings together aromatic coconut rice and rich beef rendang. The combination creates a delightful balance of flavors, with the rice being creamy and slightly sweet, while the rendang offers a spicy, savory punch that warms the soul. Perfect for a hearty meal, it’s not too complicated to make, making it a great option for both everyday cooking and special occasions.

This dish is often served with boiled eggs and crunchy peanuts, adding even more texture and taste. It’s a comforting meal that showcases the best of Malaysian cuisine and will leave you satisfied and wanting more.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups jasmine rice
  • 1 1/2 cups coconut milk
  • 1 cup water
  • 2 pandan leaves, tied in a knot
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 500g beef, cut into cubes
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 onions, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
  • 2 tablespoons rendang paste
  • 1 cup coconut milk (for the rendang)
  • 1 tablespoon tamarind paste
  • Salt to taste
  • Boiled eggs, for serving
  • Peanuts, for garnish
  • Cucumber slices, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Rice: Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Combine the rice, coconut milk, water, pandan leaves, and salt in a rice cooker or pot. Cook according to your rice cooker instructions or simmer on low heat until done.
  2. Make the Rendang: In a pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Sauté the onions, garlic, and ginger until fragrant. Add the beef cubes and cook until browned. Stir in the rendang paste and mix well.
  3. Simmer: Pour in the coconut milk and tamarind paste. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 1-2 hours until the beef is tender and the sauce thickens. Season with salt to taste.
  4. Serve: Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork. Serve the coconut rice on a plate, topped with the rendang, boiled eggs, peanuts, and cucumber slices.

Nasi Biryani

A plate of Nasi Biryani, featuring aromatic rice with tender meat and spices.

Nasi Biryani is a fragrant and flavorful rice dish that showcases the rich culinary heritage of Malaysia. With its layers of aromatic spices, tender meat, and fluffy rice, this dish is both satisfying and comforting. It’s perfect for special occasions or a cozy family dinner, and surprisingly simple to make at home.

The combination of spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves gives Nasi Biryani its distinctive taste, while the addition of saffron adds a lovely color and aroma. Serve it with a side of yogurt or a spicy sambal to balance the flavors, and enjoy a dish that’s sure to impress!

Ingredients

  • 2 cups basmati rice
  • 500g chicken or lamb, cut into pieces
  • 1 large onion, sliced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-inch piece ginger, grated
  • 2 tomatoes, chopped
  • 1/4 cup plain yogurt
  • 1/4 cup cooking oil
  • 2-3 cardamom pods
  • 3-4 cloves
  • 1 stick cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 teaspoon coriander powder
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
  • Saffron strands (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak for about 30 minutes, then drain.
  2. In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add sliced onions and sauté until golden brown. Add garlic and ginger, and cook for another minute.
  3. Add the chicken or lamb pieces to the pot, and cook until browned on all sides. Incorporate the tomatoes, yogurt, and spices (cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and salt). Stir well and cook until the meat is tender.
  4. Add the soaked rice to the pot, along with 4 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the water has absorbed.
  5. Once cooked, sprinkle garam masala and saffron (if using) over the rice. Fluff gently with a fork and garnish with fresh coriander leaves before serving.

Nasi Kucing

A close-up of Nasi Kucing, a Malaysian dish featuring rice with chicken, sambal, and vegetables wrapped in banana leaves.

Nasi Kucing, or ‘cat rice,’ is a delightful Malaysian dish that’s both simple to make and packed with flavor. Typically served in small portions, it consists of fragrant rice paired with a variety of toppings, such as spicy sambal, fried chicken, or vegetables. The combination offers a wonderful balance of taste, making it a popular choice for on-the-go meals or a quick snack.

This dish is not only convenient but also allows for plenty of creativity in the kitchen. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients, making it enjoyable for everyone. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced cook, Nasi Kucing is sure to impress!

Ingredients

  • 2 cups jasmine rice
  • 4 cups water
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
  • 1/2 cup sambal (spicy chili paste)
  • 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
  • Banana leaves or parchment paper for wrapping
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Rice: Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Combine the rice, water, and salt in a pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and fluffy.
  2. Prepare the Chicken: In a pan over medium heat, add the shredded chicken and sambal. Stir well to coat the chicken with the sambal and cook for about 5 minutes until heated through.
  3. Cook the Vegetables: In a separate pan, lightly sauté the mixed vegetables until tender, about 3-5 minutes.
  4. Assemble the Dish: Lay out a piece of banana leaf or parchment paper. Place a scoop of rice in the center, followed by the sambal chicken and sautéed vegetables. Fold the edges to wrap it securely.
  5. Serve: Garnish the wrapped Nasi Kucing with fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy it warm!

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