Nasi Lemak recipe

Nasi Lemak is a fragrant coconut rice dish that serves as a staple breakfast option and a cherished comfort food throughout the country. This delightful dish features fluffy rice cooked in coconut milk, accompanied by a symphony of accompaniments such as spicy sambal, crispy anchovies, roasted peanuts, hard-boiled or fried egg, and fresh cucumber slices. The harmonious combination of sweet, savory, and spicy elements makes Nasi Lemak a true representation of Malaysia’s culinary heritage. Whether you’re craving a taste of Southeast Asia or seeking to expand your palate, our easy-to-follow Nasi Lemak recipe promises an authentic and aromatic experience that will leave you yearning for more.

Ingredients:

For the Coconut Rice:

• 2 cups jasmine rice
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1 cup water
• 1 pandan leaf, tied into a knot (optional)
• Salt, to taste

For the Sambal:

• 10 dried red chili peppers, soaked in hot water
• 3 cloves garlic
• 2 shallots
• 1 teaspoon belacan (shrimp paste), toasted
• 1 tablespoon tamarind paste
• 1 tablespoon palm sugar or brown sugar
• Salt, to taste

For Serving:

• Hard-boiled or fried eggs
• Crispy fried anchovies
• Roasted peanuts
• Fresh cucumber slices
• Fresh or dried banana leaves, for serving

Instructions:

For the Coconut Rice:

1. Rinse the jasmine rice thoroughly until the water runs clear. Drain the rice well.
2. In a rice cooker or a pot, combine the rinsed rice, coconut milk, water, pandan leaf (if using), and a pinch of salt.
3. Cook the rice according to your rice cooker’s instructions or on the stovetop until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is fluffy. Once cooked, fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains.

For the Sambal:

1. In a blender or food processor, blend the soaked dried red chili peppers, garlic, shallots, toasted belacan, tamarind paste, palm sugar, and salt until you achieve a smooth paste. Adjust the seasoning to your taste.

To Serve:

1. Place a serving of coconut rice on a plate lined with fresh or dried banana leaves.
2. Serve the sambal alongside the rice, allowing each diner to adjust the spiciness according to their preference.
3. Arrange the crispy fried anchovies, roasted peanuts, hard-boiled or fried egg, and fresh cucumber slices on the plate.
4. For an authentic touch, wrap the Nasi Lemak in banana leaves before enjoying.