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Nasi Goreng

August 27, 2024

Nasi Goreng is Indonesia's beloved fried rice, known for its savory, smoky flavor and flexible ingredients. Traditionally made with leftover rice, sweet soy sauce, and simple proteins, it's quick, filling, and very cost-effective. This recipe uses pantry staples for an affordable, delicious meal.

Indonesian Nasi Goreng

Information

Total Time: 25 minutes

Servings: 4 Servings

Ingredients

Ingredient Quantity Price
Cooked rice (preferably day-old) 4 cups $0.80
Eggs 2 $0.40
Garlic 3 cloves $0.15
Onion 1 small $0.30
Soy sauce 2 tbsp $0.15
Sweet soy sauce (kecap manis or substitute) 2 tbsp $0.20
Chili flakes (or fresh chili) 1 tsp $0.05
Carrot (optional) 1 small, grated $0.20
Cabbage or frozen peas 1 cup (optional) $0.30
Cooking oil 2 tbsp $0.10
Salt to taste $0.05

Directions

  1. Step 1

    Finely chop garlic and onion. Prepare and measure all ingredients before heating the pan.

  2. Step 2

    Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a large pan or wok. Add eggs and scramble until just set. Remove and set aside.

  3. Step 3

    Add another tbsp of oil. Sauté garlic and onion until golden and fragrant.

  4. Step 4

    Add shredded carrots and cabbage or peas. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes.

  5. Step 5

    Add the cooked rice. Use a spatula to break up any clumps. Stir well to combine.

  6. Step 6

    Add soy sauce, sweet soy sauce, chili flakes, and a pinch of salt. Stir-fry on high heat to get a smoky edge.

  7. Step 7

    Return scrambled eggs to the pan. Mix everything well.

  8. Step 8

    Serve hot, topped with fried shallots or a sunny-side-up egg if desired.

📌 Final Notes:

  • Total Estimated Cost: $2.90
  • Cost Per Serving (4 servings): ~$0.73
  • Fried shallots or a fried egg per serving (+$0.25/egg if added)
  • Use leftover rice and vegetables.
  • Skip egg topping if on a tight budget.
  • Make a homemade sweet soy sauce: mix 1 tbsp soy sauce + 1 tbsp brown sugar.