Indonesian Fried Rice (Nasi Goreng)

Ingredients

• 2-3 cups cooked rice (day-old rice is best)
• 2-3 tablespoons cooking oil
• 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-2 shallots, minced (optional, can use red onion)
• 1-2 red chilies, sliced (adjust to taste, optional)
• 100g chicken or shrimp, diced (optional)
• 1 egg, beaten (for scramble or fried egg)
• 1-2 tablespoons sweet soy sauce (kecap manis)
• 1/2 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
• Salt to taste
• Optional garnishes: sliced cucumber, tomato, fried shallots, emping (melinjo crackers)

Instructions

1. Heat cooking oil in a large wok or frying pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add minced garlic and shallots (if using). Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add chicken or shrimp (if using) and stir-fry until cooked through.
4. Push ingredients to one side of the wok. Pour beaten egg into the empty space and scramble until just set. Mix with other ingredients.
5. Add cooked rice to the wok. Break up any clumps.
6. Pour in sweet soy sauce, regular soy sauce, white pepper, and salt. Stir-fry vigorously to combine all ingredients, ensuring the rice is evenly coated and heated through, about 3-5 minutes.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
8. Serve hot, garnished with sliced cucumber, tomato, fried shallots, or emping if desired.