Craving a taste of Southeast Asia? Look no further than this incredibly flavorful and satisfying Beef Nasi Goreng recipe! Nasi Goreng, meaning ‘fried rice’ in Indonesian, is a staple dish known for its savory, slightly sweet, and umami-rich flavor profile. This version elevates the classic with tender, juicy beef, creating a hearty and delicious meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. Imagine perfectly cooked rice, stir-fried with a medley of aromatic spices, vegetables, and succulent beef, all brought together with a touch of sweet soy sauce and a hint of chili. This Beef Nasi Goreng is not just a meal; it’s an experience.
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This recipe is designed to be easy to follow, even for beginners. We’ll break down each step, from prepping the ingredients to achieving that perfect fried rice texture. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more. Let’s dive into the world of Beef Nasi Goreng!
Recipe Overview
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 25 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 35 minutes |
| Servings | 4 servings |
| Difficulty | Easy |
Nutrition per Serving (Approximate)
Please note that these are approximate values and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 550-650 |
| Protein | 30-35g |
| Fat | 25-30g |
| Carbohydrates | 60-70g |
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious Beef Nasi Goreng:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cooked Rice (preferably day-old) | 4 cups |
| Beef Sirloin or Steak, thinly sliced | 1 pound |
| Vegetable Oil | 3 tablespoons |
| Garlic, minced | 4 cloves |
| Shallots, minced | 2 medium |
| Red Chili Pepper, finely chopped (adjust to taste) | 1-2 (optional) |
| Egg | 2 |
| Sweet Soy Sauce (Kecap Manis) | 4 tablespoons |
| Soy Sauce | 2 tablespoons |
| Fish Sauce | 1 tablespoon |
| Shrimp Paste (Terasi or Belacan), optional but recommended | ½ teaspoon (grated or finely chopped) |
| Green Onions, sliced | 2 stalks |
| Carrot, diced | ½ cup |
| Peas, frozen | ½ cup |
| Cucumber, sliced (for garnish) | Optional |
| Fried Shallots (for garnish) | Optional |
| Pickled Vegetables (for garnish) | Optional |
Cooking Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your own delicious Beef Nasi Goreng:
- Prepare the Beef: Thinly slice the beef against the grain. Marinate the beef with a tablespoon of soy sauce for at least 15 minutes, or up to an hour in the refrigerator. This will tenderize the beef and infuse it with flavor.
- Prepare the Aromatics: Mince the garlic and shallots. If using, finely chop the red chili pepper. Grate or finely chop the shrimp paste (if using). Having all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking is essential for a smooth and efficient stir-frying process.
- Stir-fry the Beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat. Add the marinated beef and stir-fry until it’s cooked through and slightly browned. Remove the beef from the wok and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Add another tablespoon of vegetable oil to the wok. Add the minced garlic, shallots, and chili pepper (if using). Sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic. This step is crucial for building the flavor base of your Nasi Goreng.
- Add the Vegetables: Add the diced carrots and frozen peas to the wok. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the carrots are slightly softened. Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or bean sprouts, if desired.
- Add the Rice: Add the cooked rice to the wok. Break up any clumps of rice with a spatula or spoon. Stir-fry to combine with the aromatics and vegetables. Day-old rice is ideal because it’s drier and less likely to become mushy during stir-frying.
- Add the Sauces and Shrimp Paste: In a small bowl, whisk together the sweet soy sauce (kecap manis), soy sauce, fish sauce, and shrimp paste (if using). Pour the sauce mixture over the rice. Stir-fry continuously to ensure the sauce is evenly distributed and coats all the rice grains. This is where the magic happens – the sauce is what gives Nasi Goreng its signature flavor.
- Combine the Beef: Add the cooked beef back to the wok. Stir-fry to combine with the rice and vegetables. Make sure the beef is heated through.
- Fry the Egg: While the Nasi Goreng is cooking, fry the egg in a separate pan. You can fry it sunny-side up or over-easy, depending on your preference.
- Serve: Serve the Beef Nasi Goreng hot, topped with a fried egg. Garnish with sliced green onions, fried shallots, and pickled vegetables (if using). Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions
Beef Nasi Goreng is delicious on its own, but here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal:
- Add a fried egg: As mentioned above, a fried egg is a classic topping for Nasi Goreng. The runny yolk adds richness and flavor.
- Serve with prawn crackers (krupuk): These crispy crackers add a satisfying crunch and complement the savory flavors of the Nasi Goreng.
- Garnish with sliced cucumber and tomato: These fresh vegetables provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.
- Add a side of satay: Grilled satay skewers with peanut sauce are a popular accompaniment to Nasi Goreng.
- Serve with a spicy sambal: If you like it hot, add a dollop of sambal (Indonesian chili paste) to your Nasi Goreng.
Tips and Notes
Here are some tips and notes to help you make the perfect Beef Nasi Goreng:
- Use day-old rice: Day-old rice is drier and less likely to become mushy during stir-frying. If you don’t have day-old rice, you can spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet and let it cool completely before using it.
- Don’t overcrowd the wok: Overcrowding the wok will lower the temperature and prevent the rice from frying properly. If you’re making a large batch, cook the Nasi Goreng in batches.
- Adjust the spice level: You can adjust the amount of chili pepper to your liking. If you’re sensitive to spice, omit the chili pepper altogether.
- Experiment with different vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to your Nasi Goreng, such as bell peppers, bean sprouts, or mushrooms.
- Use high heat: High heat is essential for stir-frying. It helps to create a smoky flavor and prevent the rice from becoming soggy.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning: Taste the Nasi Goreng and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may need to add more soy sauce, fish sauce, or sweet soy sauce to achieve the desired flavor.
Beef Nasi Goreng is a versatile dish that can be customized to your liking. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and seasonings to create your own signature version. Enjoy this delightful Indonesian classic!
This Beef Nasi Goreng recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The combination of savory beef, fragrant spices, and perfectly cooked rice makes for a truly unforgettable meal. It’s easy enough to make on a weeknight, yet impressive enough to serve to guests. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to experience the authentic flavors of Indonesia! Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this Beef Nasi Goreng is sure to become a new favorite in your household. The richness of the beef combined with the sweet and savory sauce creates a symphony of flavors that will leave you wanting more. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the vegetables and spice levels to create a Beef Nasi Goreng that’s perfectly tailored to your taste. And remember, the key to a great Nasi Goreng is using day-old rice and stir-frying over high heat. So, fire up your wok and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece! Enjoy every bite of this authentic and delicious Beef Nasi Goreng!
This recipe for Beef Nasi Goreng offers a delightful and accessible way to experience Indonesian cuisine. The combination of simple ingredients and straightforward instructions makes it perfect for home cooks of all skill levels. From the savory beef to the perfectly seasoned rice, every element of this dish contributes to a harmonious and satisfying meal. The use of kecap manis adds a distinctive sweetness that balances the savory flavors, while the chili pepper provides a touch of heat that can be adjusted to your preference. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful dish to share with friends and family, this Beef Nasi Goreng is sure to impress. So, don’t hesitate to try this recipe and discover the deliciousness of Indonesian fried rice!
