Nasi Merah
Elevate your mealtime with the wholesome goodness of *Nasi Merah*, a traditional Indonesian red rice dish infused with layers of aromatic flavors. The nutty red rice is simmered to perfection in creamy coconut milk and water, enriched with the vibrant essence of lemongrass, galangal, bay leaves, and a hint of garlic and shallots. This dish balances simplicity and bold flavors, offering a naturally gluten-free, nutrient-packed option that pairs beautifully with grilled proteins, vegetable curries, or as a satisfying standalone meal. With just 10 minutes of prep time and minimal effort, this easy one-pot recipe is perfect for impressing your guests with a flavorful, wholesome twist on steamed rice. Whether you're exploring Indonesian cuisine or looking for a healthy side dish, *Nasi Merah* delivers taste, aroma, and nutrition all in one.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 cups red rice
- 4 cups water
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 lemongrass stalk
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 inch piece galangal
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 shallots
- 2 garlic cloves
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions
Rinse the red rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. Set aside.
In a medium-sized pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Peel and thinly slice the shallots and garlic, then add them to the pan.
Sauté the shallots and garlic until they become fragrant and start to turn golden brown, about 2-3 minutes.
Slightly bruise the lemongrass stalk and galangal by using the back of a knife, then add them to the pan along with the bay leaves. Continue to sauté for another minute.
Add the rinsed red rice to the pan and stir well, ensuring the rice is evenly coated with the fragrant oil and spices.
Pour in the water and coconut milk. Add the salt, then stir to combine all ingredients.
Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the rice is tender and all the liquid has been absorbed.
Once cooked, remove the pan from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Remove the lemongrass, galangal, and bay leaves before fluffing the rice with a fork.
Serve the nasi merah warm as a side dish or enjoy it as a main course with your choice of protein or vegetables.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1876 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 36.2 g | 46% | |
| Saturated Fat | 4.1 g | 20% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 16.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 2441 mg | 106% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 359.1 g | 131% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 21.0 g | 75% | |
| Total Sugars | 23.5 g | ||
| Protein | 39.4 g | 79% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 169 mg | 13% | |
| Iron | 13.8 mg | 77% | |
| Potassium | 556 mg | 12% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
