Nasi kuning is an Indonesian rice dish made with coconut milk and turmeric, symbolizing wealth and good luck. It can be served in a mound or cone shape with various side dishes such as omelettes and fried chicken.
Meaning “yellow rice,” nasi kuning is an Indonesian rice dish made from coconut milk. The rice gets its yellow coloring from the turmeric spice which is always included. Popularly served during festivals, such as Ramadan, nasi kuning is considered a symbolic dish as the yellow coloring of the rice resembles gold, symbolizing wealth and good luck. It can be served in a mound with garnishes surrounding it, or in the shape of a pointed cone, called a tunpeng.
Long grain rice, coconut milk and turmeric are the essential ingredients for nasi kuning. Salami leaves, the Indonesian version of bay leaves, are also usually used, although bay leaves can be substituted if salam leaves are not available. Bruised lemongrass stalks, pandan leaves and lime juice as well as onions and garlic can also be included to add extra flavouring. To cook rice, chicken broth or water is usually used, and salt is often added to taste.
Most easily made in a rice steamer or Dutch oven, nasi kuning can also be made in a simple pan with the rice often simmered in broth or water before being combined with the rest of the ingredients. If garlic and onions are included, they are first minced and fried in oil and the coconut milk is boiled with the other ingredients before mixing into the rice. Alternatively, spices can be added to the onions and garlic and the rice covered with the resulting mixture. Next, the coconut milk and lemongrass are added and the mixture is covered and simmered until the rice absorbs the liquid. Often, nasi kuning is allowed to rest after being removed from the heat, with the lemongrass removed before the dish is served.
Nasi kuning is usually served with a variety of side dishes, such as omelettes or fried chicken, and many Indonesian-based dishes are also served. A spicy coconut dish, called serundeng, or fried potatoes, called perkedel kentang, is often served with the dish. Other side dishes include deep-fried prawns, a type of fried minced beef called abon, and kering tempe or deep-fried, partially cooked soy-based cakes. Side dishes are also usually included in this dish, such as sliced cucumbers and prawn crackers as the most frequent toppings, although fried shallots or sliced chilies can also be used.
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