How to Make Nasi Kuning: A Step-by-Step Recipe for the Traditional Indonesian Yellow Rice Dish

Make traditional Indonesian nasi kuning with our easy recipe! Infused with fragrant coconut milk, turmeric, lemongrass, and pandan leaves, this aromat


            Nasi kuning is a traditional Indonesian dish that is often served during special occasions such as weddings, birthdays, and religious ceremonies. The dish is made with rice that is cooked with a mixture of coconut milk, turmeric, lemongrass, and pandan leaves, which gives it its distinctive yellow color and fragrant aroma. In this article, we'll show you how to make nasi kuning at home with our easy-to-follow recipe.


Ingredients:

  • 2 cups of rice
  • 2 1/2 cups of water
  • 1 cup of coconut milk
  • 1 stalk of lemongrass, bruised
  • 1 pandan leaf, tied in a knot
  • 2 teaspoons of turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 2 kaffir lime leaves (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Rinse the rice in water until the water runs clear.
  2. In a large pot, combine the rice, water, coconut milk, lemongrass, pandan leaf, turmeric powder, salt, and kaffir lime leaves (if using).
  3. Stir the mixture well to combine all the ingredients.
  4. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
  5. Once the mixture comes to a boil, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid.
  6. Allow the rice to simmer for 20-25 minutes or been absorbed and the rice is fully cooked.
  7. Remove the pot from the heat and let it sit for another 10-15 minutes.
  8. Fluff the rice with a fork and remove the lemongrass, pandan leaf, and kaffir lime leaves.

Serving Suggestions:

Nasi kuning is usually served with a variety of side dishes, including fried chicken, beef rendang, sambal, eggs, and vegetables. You can also garnish the nasi kuning with fried shallots, sliced cucumbers, and tomato slices for an extra crunch and freshness. Traditionally, nasi kuning is also served with a cone-shaped rice, which is created by packing the rice tightly into a special cone-shaped mold.


Tips and Tricks:

  1. Use good quality coconut milk to achieve a rich and creamy flavor.
  2. Rinse the rice well before cooking to remove excess starch and ensure fluffy rice.
  3. If you don't have fresh turmeric, you can use turmeric powder instead.
  4. If you want to make the rice more fragrant, you can add more pandan leaves or kaffir lime leaves to the mixture.
  5. If you want to make nasi kuning for a large group of people, you can double or triple the recipe accordingly.


In conclusion, nasi kuning is a delicious and nutritious dish that is easy to make at home. With a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can create a flavorful and aromatic rice that is sure to impress your family and friends. So go ahead and give this recipe a try, and let us know how it turns out!

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