Cuban-style Nasi Goreng

Recipe

Cuban-style Nasi Goreng

Havana Fried Rice: A Cuban Twist on Indonesian Nasi Goreng

In the vibrant world of Cuban cuisine, Havana Fried Rice brings a delightful fusion of flavors. Inspired by the Indonesian classic, Nasi Goreng, this Cuban-style dish combines aromatic rice, succulent shrimp, and a medley of colorful vegetables. With a touch of Cuban spices and a hint of citrus, this dish is a celebration of the rich culinary heritage of both Indonesia and Cuba.

Jan Dec

20 minutes

15 minutes

35 minutes

4 servings

Easy

Gluten-free, Dairy-free, Pescatarian, Low-fat, Low-calorie

Shellfish

Vegan, Vegetarian, Paleo, Keto, Nut-free

Ingredients

While the original Nasi Goreng is known for its bold and spicy flavors, the Cuban adaptation adds a unique twist. Cuban cuisine incorporates elements of Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences, resulting in a milder and more citrusy flavor profile. The use of Cuban spices, such as cumin and oregano, along with the addition of citrus fruits, gives the dish a distinct Cuban flair. We alse have the original recipe for Nasi goreng, so you can check it out.

Nutrition

  • Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
  • Fat (total, saturated): 6g, 1g
  • Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 45g, 3g
  • Protein: 22g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

  1. 1.
    Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. 2.
    Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
  3. 3.
    Add diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet and cook until softened.
  4. 4.
    Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet and add the shrimp. Cook until pink and cooked through.
  5. 5.
    In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, lime juice, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  6. 6.
    Push the shrimp and vegetables to one side of the skillet and add the cooked rice to the other side.
  7. 7.
    Pour the sauce over the rice and stir well to combine all the ingredients.
  8. 8.
    Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
  9. 9.
    Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro.

Treat your ingredients with care...

  • Shrimp — Ensure the shrimp is properly cleaned and deveined before cooking to remove any grit or impurities.
  • Bell pepper — For a sweeter flavor, you can roast the bell pepper before dicing it for the recipe.
  • Lime juice — Freshly squeezed lime juice adds a vibrant citrus flavor. Adjust the amount according to your taste preference.

Tips & Tricks

  • To add an extra layer of flavor, you can marinate the shrimp in a mixture of lime juice, garlic, and spices for 30 minutes before cooking.
  • For a spicier kick, you can add a dash of hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes to the dish.
  • Leftover roasted chicken or pork can be substituted for shrimp to create a different variation of the dish.
  • Adding a fried egg on top of the rice before serving is a popular Cuban twist to this dish.
  • Serve with a side of fried plantains for an authentic Cuban experience.

Serving advice

Serve the Havana Fried Rice hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. For an extra touch, place a sunny-side-up fried egg on top of each serving. Accompany the dish with a side of fried plantains and a refreshing mojito cocktail.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, consider serving the Havana Fried Rice in a hollowed-out pineapple half. The vibrant colors of the dish against the tropical backdrop of the pineapple create an eye-catching and appetizing presentation.