Nasi Goreng (Indonesian Sweet Soy Sauce Shrimp Fried Rice)
Nasi goreng is Indonesia's national dish and one of Southeast Asia's most recognized comfort foods. Day-old rice is tossed in a blazing-hot wok with kecap manis, a thick sweet soy sauce that gives each grain a dark, caramelized glaze. Shrimp paste adds a deep umami backbone, while sambal chili paste cuts through the sweetness with a sharp heat. A fried egg crowns each serving, its runny yolk acting as a rich, on-the-spot sauce when broken. Crispy prawn crackers on the side provide crunch against the soft rice. The dish appears at every hour of the day, from breakfast stalls to late-night street carts.
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Instructions
- 1
Fry shallots and garlic in oil.
- 2
Add shrimp paste and sambal; stir-fry until fragrant.
- 3
Add rice and season with kecap manis; stir-fry over high heat.
- 4
Top each serving with a fried egg.
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