Indonesian cuisine is known for its vibrant flavors and diverse ingredients, and one dish that truly encapsulates this is Village Fried Rice, or Nasi Goreng Kampung. This dish is a beloved staple in many Indonesian households, cherished for its simplicity and the comfort it brings. In this article, we will dive into the basic steps of preparing this delicious fried rice, so you can create a taste of Indonesia in your own kitchen.
Ingredients Needed:
2 cups of cooked white rice (preferably dayold)
2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
3 cloves of garlic, minced
2 shallots, thinly sliced
1 to 2 red chili peppers, sliced (adjust according to your heat preference)
1 cup of mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, and corn)
2 tablespoons of sweet soy sauce (kecap manis)
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste
Optional: fried egg for topping, chicken or shrimp (precooked), and fresh cucumber for garnish
StepbyStep Preparation:
1. Prepare Your Ingredients:
Gather all of your ingredients and prepare them by mincing the garlic, slicing the shallots and chili peppers, and chopping any additional vegetables or proteins you want to include. Having everything ready will make the cooking process much smoother.
2. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. It is critical that the oil is hot enough before adding the next ingredients to ensure proper frying.
3. Sauté Aromatics:
Add the minced garlic and sliced shallots to the skillet. Stirfry them for about 12 minutes or until they become fragrant and translucent. Be careful not to burn them as this will impart a bitter flavor to your dish.
4. Add the Chili Peppers:
Next, toss in the sliced chili peppers and stirfry for another minute. This step will enhance the aroma and spice level of your fried rice.
5. Incorporate Vegetables and Protein (if using):
Add the mixed vegetables to the skillet and cook for about 23 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. If you’re adding precooked chicken or shrimp, you can toss them in at this stage to heat through.
6. Add the Rice:
Break up any clumps in your dayold rice and add it to the skillet. Stir everything together, ensuring the rice is evenly coated with the oil and mixed with the vegetables and aromatics.
7. Season the Rice:
Pour in the sweet soy sauce (kecap manis) and sprinkle salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything thoroughly, making sure each grain of rice is seasoned evenly. Cook for an additional 23 minutes, allowing the rice to slightly crispy and take on a golden hue.
8. Serve Hot:
Once cooked, remove the fried rice from the heat and transfer it to serving plates. For an authentic touch, top each serving with a fried egg and garnish with fresh cucumber slices.
9. Enjoy:
It’s time to savor your homemade Village Fried Rice! This dish is perfect for any meal of the day and can be enjoyed on its own or accompanied by sambal (spicy chili paste) for those who crave extra heat.
Conclusion:
Village Fried Rice represents the essence of Indonesian home cooking: simple, hearty, and full of flavor. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can recreate this comforting dish, bringing a slice of Indonesia right into your home. Dive into this epicurean adventure, and enjoy the warm, inviting flavors that will surely delight your palate!