Stir-Fries

Indonesian Nasi Goreng

Name: Indonesian Nasi Goreng
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old rice); 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g. carrots, peas, corn); 1 cup cooked chicken, diced; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional); 1 tablespoon kecap manis (sweet soy sauce); 1 teaspoon grated ginger; 2 scallions, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

By Nathaniel Ingram · June 19, 2026 · Stir-Fries

Prep20 min

Cook15 min

Total40 min

Serves4

I still remember the first time I had Indonesian Nasi Goreng. It was at a small family-owned restaurant in my hometown, and the combination of flavors and textures in that simple dish of stir-fried rice just blew me away. Since then, I've been on a mission to master the art of making Nasi Goreng at home, and I'm excited to share my findings with you.

Nasi Goreng, which translates to 'fried rice' in Indonesian, is more than just a dish - it's a way of using up leftover rice and turning it into something truly special. The key to a great Nasi Goreng is in the balance of flavors and textures, and I'll guide you through the process of achieving that perfect balance.

This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to spice up their meal routine with a flavorful and easy-to-make dish. Whether you're a fan of spicy food or prefer milder flavors, Nasi Goreng is highly customizable to suit your taste preferences. Plus, it's a great way to use up any leftover vegetables or protein you have on hand, making it an excellent option for reducing food waste.

In this recipe, we'll explore the basics of making a delicious Indonesian Nasi Goreng, from preparing the ingredients to cooking the perfect stir-fry. I'll share my tips and tricks for getting the best results, and by the end of it, you'll be a Nasi Goreng expert, ready to impress your friends and family with this mouthwatering dish.

So, let's get started on this culinary journey and discover the wonders of Indonesian Nasi Goreng together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal preparation time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Nasi Goreng is a highly customizable dish, allowing you to use up any leftover vegetables or protein you have on hand.
The combination of flavors and textures in Nasi Goreng makes it a engaging and satisfying eating experience.
This dish is perfect for meal prep, as it can be cooked in large batches and reheated as needed.
Nasi Goreng is a great way to reduce food waste by using up leftover rice and other ingredients.
The recipe is versatile and can be adapted to suit your dietary preferences, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.

Why This Recipe Works

The secret to a great Nasi Goreng lies in the combination of ingredients and the technique used to cook them. By stir-frying the rice with a variety of vegetables and your choice of protein, you create a dish that's not only flavorful but also textured and engaging. The key is to cook the ingredients quickly over high heat, which helps preserve the crunch of the vegetables and the tenderness of the protein.

Another important aspect of Nasi Goreng is the balance of flavors. The dish typically includes a combination of soy sauce, oyster sauce (optional), and kecap manis (sweet soy sauce), which provide a rich, savory flavor profile. The addition of aromatics like garlic, ginger, and onions adds depth to the dish, while the scallions and fried shallots provide a nice crunch and freshness.

Resting the dish for a few minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld together, and the textures to settle, resulting in a harmonious and satisfying eating experience.

By following these principles and using the right ingredients, you'll be able to create a Nasi Goreng that's not only delicious but also authentic and true to its Indonesian roots.

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to making Nasi Goreng, the ingredients are just as important as the technique. You'll need a combination of staple ingredients like rice, vegetables, and protein, as well as some specialty ingredients like soy sauce and kecap manis. Don't worry if you can't find some of the ingredients at your local store - I'll provide you with substitution options and tips on where to find them.

In this recipe, we'll be using a mix of fresh and cooked ingredients, including cooked rice, which is the foundation of Nasi Goreng. We'll also be adding a variety of vegetables, such as carrots, peas, and scallions, to provide texture and flavor. For protein, you can choose from options like chicken, shrimp, or tofu, depending on your preference.

2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old rice)Using day-old rice is crucial for making good Nasi Goreng, as it helps to prevent the rice from becoming mushy or sticky during the stir-frying process. If you don't have day-old rice, you can try cooking fresh rice and then letting it cool completely before using it.
1 tablespoon vegetable oilVegetable oil is a neutral-tasting oil that works well for stir-frying. You can also use other oils like peanut or coconut oil, but make sure to adjust the amount according to the smoke point of the oil.
1 small onion, dicedOnions add a sweet and savory flavor to Nasi Goreng. You can use either white or yellow onions, depending on your preference.
2 cloves garlic, mincedGarlic is a fundamental ingredient in many Asian dishes, including Nasi Goreng. Make sure to mince the garlic finely to release its full flavor potential.
1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g. carrots, peas, corn)The mixed vegetables add texture and flavor to the dish. You can use fresh or frozen vegetables, depending on what's available in your area.
1 cup cooked chicken, dicedCooked chicken is a common protein used in Nasi Goreng. You can also use other proteins like shrimp or tofu, depending on your preference.
2 tablespoons soy sauceSoy sauce is a staple condiment in many Asian dishes, including Nasi Goreng. It adds a rich, savory flavor to the dish.
1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)Oyster sauce is a common ingredient in many Asian dishes, but it's optional in this recipe. If you don't have oyster sauce or prefer not to use it, you can omit it or substitute it with a combination of soy sauce and hoisin sauce.
1 tablespoon kecap manis (sweet soy sauce)Kecap manis is a sweet and thick soy sauce that's commonly used in Indonesian cuisine. It adds a rich, caramel-like flavor to the dish.
1 teaspoon grated gingerGinger adds a warm, spicy flavor to Nasi Goreng. Make sure to grate the ginger finely to release its full flavor potential.
2 scallions, choppedScallions add a fresh and oniony flavor to the dish. You can use either green or white scallions, depending on your preference.
Salt and pepper to tasteSeasoning the dish with salt and pepper is crucial to bring out the flavors of the ingredients. Make sure to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Equipment You’ll Need

Large heavy skillet or wokSharp chef's knifeCutting boardInstant-read thermometerSpatulaTongs or slotted spoon

How to Make Indonesian Nasi Goreng

1
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large heavy skillet or wok over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C) on an instant-read thermometer.
2
Add the diced onion and cook until it's translucent and starting to brown, about 3-4 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
3
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
4
Add the mixed vegetables and cook until they're tender-crisp, about 2-3 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
5
Add the cooked chicken and cook until it's heated through, about 1-2 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
6
Add the cooked rice to the skillet or wok and stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. The rice should be heated through and starting to brown.
7
Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and kecap manis to the rice and stir-fry for another minute, until the rice is well coated with the sauce.
8
Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
9
Transfer the Nasi Goreng to a serving platter and garnish with chopped scallions.
10
Rest the dish for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
11
Serve the Nasi Goreng hot, with your choice of protein and vegetables on the side.

Expert Tips

Use day-old rice to make the best Nasi Goreng. Freshly cooked rice is too moist and sticky, which can make the dish clumpy and unappetizing.
Customize the dish to your taste by adding your favorite protein or vegetables.
Don't overcook the rice, as it can become dry and crunchy. Stir-fry the rice quickly over high heat to preserve its texture.
Add aromatics like garlic and ginger to the dish to add depth and flavor.
Use a variety of sauces, including soy sauce, oyster sauce, and kecap manis, to add complexity and umami flavor to the dish.
Garnish the dish with chopped scallions and fried shallots to add freshness and crunch.
Experiment with different seasonings, such as salt, pepper, and chili flakes, to add flavor to the dish.
Make the dish ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it for later use. Reheat the Nasi Goreng in a skillet or wok over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it's heated through.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using freshly cooked rice, which can make the dish clumpy and unappetizing.
Overcooking the rice, which can make it dry and crunchy.
Not using enough sauce, which can make the dish dry and flavorless.
Not seasoning the dish enough, which can make it bland and unappetizing.
Not resting the dish before serving, which can make the flavors and textures unbalanced.
Using low-quality ingredients, which can affect the flavor and texture of the dish.

Variations and Substitutions

Add other proteins like shrimp, beef, or pork to the dish for added flavor and texture.
Use different types of vegetables, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or snow peas, to add variety to the dish.
Add spices and seasonings, such as cumin, coriander, or chili flakes, to give the dish a unique flavor.
Use different types of rice, such as jasmine or basmati, to change the texture and flavor of the dish.
Add nuts or seeds, such as peanuts or sesame seeds, to the dish for added crunch and flavor.
Make the dish vegetarian or vegan by omitting the protein and using plant-based ingredients instead.
Add other sauces, such as hoisin sauce or sriracha, to the dish for added flavor and heat.

What to Serve With Indonesian Nasi Goreng

Nasi Goreng is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides and drinks. Some popular options include fried eggs, chicken satay, and fresh fruit. You can also serve the dish with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple green salad for a lighter option.

For drinks, consider serving the Nasi Goreng with a glass of fresh juice, such as orange or mango, or a cold beer. If you prefer something hotter, a cup of coffee or tea can provide a nice contrast to the spicy and savory flavors of the dish.

Fried eggsChicken satayFresh fruitSteamed vegetablesSimple green saladFresh juice

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

Nasi Goreng can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. To refrigerate, cool the dish to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. To freeze, cool the dish to room temperature, then transfer it to a freezer-safe bag or container and store it in the freezer.

To reheat the Nasi Goreng, simply heat it in a skillet or wok over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it's heated through. You can also reheat the dish in the microwave, but be careful not to overheat it, as it can become dry and unappetizing.

When reheating the Nasi Goreng, you can add a little water or oil to the dish to prevent it from drying out. You can also add other ingredients, such as cooked vegetables or protein, to the dish to make it more substantial.

Overall, Nasi Goreng is a convenient and delicious dish that can be made ahead of time and reheated as needed. With its versatile ingredients and easy storage and reheating instructions, it's a great option for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of rice is best for Nasi Goreng?

Day-old rice is best for Nasi Goreng, as it's drier and easier to stir-fry. You can use other types of rice, such as jasmine or basmati, but day-old rice is preferred.

Can I use freshly cooked rice for Nasi Goreng?

No, freshly cooked rice is too moist and sticky for Nasi Goreng. It's best to use day-old rice or cook the rice ahead of time and let it cool completely before using it.

What protein can I use in Nasi Goreng?

You can use a variety of proteins in Nasi Goreng, including chicken, shrimp, beef, and pork. You can also use tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian or vegan option.

Can I add other ingredients to Nasi Goreng?

Yes, you can add a variety of ingredients to Nasi Goreng, including vegetables, nuts, and seeds. Some popular options include peas, carrots, and green onions.

How do I store Nasi Goreng?

Can I reheat Nasi Goreng?

Yes, you can reheat Nasi Goreng in a skillet or wok over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it's heated through. You can also reheat the dish in the microwave, but be careful not to overheat it, as it can become dry and unappetizing.

Is Nasi Goreng spicy?

Nasi Goreng can be spicy, depending on the ingredients used. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can omit the chili flakes or use less of them. If you prefer a spicier flavor, you can add more chili flakes or use hotter peppers.

Can I make Nasi Goreng ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Nasi Goreng ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it for later use. Simply cook the dish, cool it to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator or freezer.

Is Nasi Goreng gluten-free?

Nasi Goreng can be gluten-free, depending on the ingredients used. If you use gluten-free soy sauce and oyster sauce, and avoid adding any gluten-containing ingredients, the dish can be gluten-free.

Can I serve Nasi Goreng at a party?

Yes, Nasi Goreng is a great dish to serve at a party, as it's easy to make in large quantities and can be served with a variety of sides and drinks. You can also customize the dish to fit your party's theme and flavor preferences.

The Full Recipe

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