Mediterranean-style Nasi Goreng

Ingredients

While the original Indonesian Nasi Goreng typically includes ingredients like shrimp paste and sweet soy sauce, our Mediterranean adaptation replaces these with Mediterranean spices and herbs such as oregano, thyme, and basil. We also incorporate Mediterranean vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and tomatoes to add a burst of freshness to the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Nasi goreng, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (400g) cooked long-grain rice 2 cups (400g) cooked long-grain rice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 zucchini, diced 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried basil 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish Fresh parsley, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 40g, 5g
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. 2.
   Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan and sauté until fragrant and translucent.
3. 3.
   Add the diced bell pepper and zucchini to the pan and cook until they start to soften.
4. 4.
   Stir in the cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. 5.
   Add the cooked rice to the pan and mix well to combine with the vegetables.
6. 6.
   Sprinkle the dried oregano, thyme, and basil over the rice and vegetables. Stir to evenly distribute the spices.
7. 7.
   Drizzle the soy sauce over the rice mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well.
8. 8.
   Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors meld together.
9. 9.
   Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Rice — Use leftover cooked rice for best results. If using freshly cooked rice, allow it to cool completely before using to prevent it from becoming mushy.

Tips & Tricks

• For added protein, you can stir in cooked chickpeas or grilled tofu into the Nasi Goreng.
• Customize the dish by adding your favorite Mediterranean ingredients such as olives or artichoke hearts.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or drizzle hot sauce over the finished dish.
• To make it heartier, serve the Nasi Goreng with a fried egg on top.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day. Simply reheat in a pan or microwave before serving.

Serving advice

Serve the Mediterranean-style Nasi Goreng hot as a main course. It pairs well with a side salad or a refreshing cucumber and yogurt dip.

Presentation advice

Garnish the Nasi Goreng with a sprinkle of fresh parsley to add a pop of color. Serve it in a vibrant Mediterranean-inspired bowl or plate to enhance the visual appeal.