Nasi Goreng (Indonesian Fried Rice)

Ingredients

• 3 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old, chilled)
• 2-3 tablespoons cooking oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 shallot, minced (or 1/4 small onion)
• 1-2 red chilies, sliced (optional, adjust to taste)
• 100g chicken or shrimp, diced (optional)
• 1 egg, scrambled (optional, set aside)
• 1-2 tablespoons sweet soy sauce (kecap manis)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (light soy sauce)
• 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
• Salt to taste
• Scallions, sliced (for garnish)
• Cucumber slices and tomato wedges (for garnish)
• Fried egg (optional, for serving)
• Fried shallots (bawang goreng, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Heat cooking oil in a large wok or frying pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add minced garlic, shallot, and sliced chilies (if using). Sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
3. If using chicken or shrimp, add them to the wok and stir-fry until cooked through.
4. Add the cooked rice to the wok. Break up any clumps with your spatula.
5. Pour in the sweet soy sauce, soy sauce, white pepper, and a pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly until the rice is evenly coated and the color is consistent. Continue stir-frying for 3-5 minutes, ensuring the rice is heated through and slightly drier.
6. If using, add the scrambled egg back into the wok and mix well with the rice.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
8. Transfer the Nasi Goreng to serving plates.
9. Garnish with sliced scallions, cucumber, tomato. Serve immediately, optionally topped with a fried egg and fried shallots.