A Bold Indonesian Fried Rice with Savoury Sauces and Colourful Toppings
Indonesian Nasi Goreng is a flavourful fried rice dish prepared with chicken, vegetables and a distinctive combination of kecap manis, soy sauce and chilli paste. Garlic and onion form the aromatic base, while carrot and cabbage add colour, freshness and texture to every serving.
The cooked and cooled rice is stir-fried with the seasoned chicken and vegetables, allowing the sauces to coat the grains and create a rich, savoury taste with a gentle hint of sweetness and spice. The dish is finished with spring onions, crispy onions and fried eggs, bringing together contrasting textures and making it a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
750 g basmati rice (4 cups), cooked and cooled
500 g chicken
200 g prawns (optional)
1 onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, chopped
1 carrot, diced
1 cup cabbage, shredded
Spring onions, chopped
3 tbsp oil
3 tbsp kecap manis
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp chilli paste
1 tsp white pepper
Salt, to taste
6 eggs, for frying
Cucumber, for serving
Method
Cook and Cool the Rice: Cook the rice in advance and allow it to cool completely. Using cooled rice helps the grains remain separate during stir-frying.
Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the oil in a large wok or frying pan. Add the chopped onion and garlic, then stir-fry until fragrant and softened.
Cook the Chicken and Prawns: Add the chicken and cook for approximately 6–8 minutes, until thoroughly cooked. If using prawns, add them and cook until they are done.
Add the Vegetables: Stir in the diced carrot and shredded cabbage. Cook for about 3 minutes, keeping the vegetables slightly crisp while allowing them to soften.
Stir-Fry the Rice: Add the cooled rice and mix it with the chicken and vegetables. Pour in the kecap manis and soy sauce, then add the chilli paste, white pepper and salt. Toss everything over the heat for 3–4 minutes until evenly combined.
Prepare the Toppings: Transfer the fried rice to a serving platter. Top with chopped spring onions, crispy onions and fried eggs to complete the dish.
Serve
Serve Indonesian Nasi Goreng hot with prawn crackers, fresh cucumber, sliced tomatoes and sambal. The crisp crackers add texture, while cucumber and tomato provide a refreshing contrast to the savoury, sweet and mildly spicy fried rice.