Experience the taste of Indonesia with Nasi Kuning, a fragrant yellow rice infused with coconut milk and turmeric. This traditional dish is a feast for the senses, often accompanied by a variety of side dishes such as spicy sambal, tender chicken, and crispy fried anchovies. Dive into a culinary adventure with Nasi Kuning, where every bite is a burst of flavor and culture.

Here's a recipe for Nasi Kuning, Indonesian yellow rice:

Ingredients:

 - 2 cups jasmine rice

 - 2 cups coconut milk

 - 1 3/4 cups water

 - 1 1/2 teaspoons turmeric powder

 - 1 teaspoon salt

 - 2 pandan leaves (optional, for fragrance)

For serving:

 - Fried chicken

 - Fried anchovies

 - Sambal (Indonesian chili paste)

 - Sliced cucumber and tomatoes

Instructions:

1- Rinse the rice until the water runs clear. Drain well.

2- In a large pot, combine the rice, coconut milk, water, turmeric powder, salt, and pandan leaves.

3- Stir well to combine and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.

4- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.

5- Remove the pot from the heat and let it sit, covered, for another 5-10 minutes to steam.

6- Fluff the rice with a fork and remove the pandan leaves before serving.

7- Serve the Nasi Kuning with fried chicken, fried anchovies, sambal, and sliced cucumber and tomatoes on the side.

Enjoy your Nasi Kuning!

Nutritional Values :

Here’s the breakdown of **Nutritional Values** and **Benefits** for the ingredients listed:

Jasmine Rice (2 cups, uncooked):

- Calories: 640 kcal

- Fat: 1.2g

- Carbohydrates: 144g

- Protein: 12g

Benefits:

 - A good source of carbohydrates, providing energy.

 - Contains small amounts of protein and some B vitamins.

 - Easy to digest and has a pleasant aroma when cooked.

Coconut Milk (2 cups):

- Calories: 552 kcal

- Fat: 57.2g

- Carbohydrates: 13.3g

- Protein: 5.5g

Benefits:

 - Rich in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) which may support weight loss and provide quick energy.

 - Contains antioxidants and is good for heart health in moderation.

 - Adds a rich, creamy texture and flavor to rice.

Water (1 3/4 cups):

- Calories: 0 kcal

Benefits:

 - Essential for cooking and hydrating rice.

 - Helps maintain proper hydration in the body.

 - No caloric value, making it a neutral ingredient in terms of nutrition.

Turmeric Powder (1 1/2 teaspoons):

- Calories: 8 kcal

- Fat: 0.2g

- Carbohydrates: 1.4g

- Protein: 0.3g

Benefits:

 - Contains curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compound.

 - May improve brain function and lower the risk of heart disease.

 - Adds a vibrant yellow color and earthy flavor to rice.

Salt (1 teaspoon):

- Calories: 0 kcal

- Fat: 0g

- Carbohydrates: 0g

- Protein: 0g

Benefits:

 - Essential for maintaining fluid balance and nerve function.

 - Enhances the flavor of the dish.

 - Should be used in moderation to avoid high blood pressure.

Pandan Leaves (Optional, 2 leaves):

- Nutritional Value: Negligible as it is typically used for fragrance and removed before eating.

Benefits:

 - Adds a distinct, sweet fragrance to the rice.

 - May have calming properties and help improve digestion.

Fried Chicken (Serving Portion):

- Calories: 300-400 kcal (varies depending on preparation)

- Fat: 20-25g

- Carbohydrates: 10-15g

- Protein: 25-30g

Benefits:

 - High in protein, supporting muscle growth and repair.

 - Contains essential vitamins and minerals like B vitamins, iron, and zinc.

 - Provides a satisfying and flavorful accompaniment to rice.

Fried Anchovies (Serving Portion, 30g):

- Calories: 95 kcal

- Fat: 4g

- Carbohydrates: 0g

- Protein: 13g

Benefits:

 - Rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, beneficial for heart health.

 - Contains calcium, supporting bone health.

 - Adds a salty, umami flavor and crunchy texture to the meal.

Sambal (Indonesian Chili Paste, 1 tablespoon):

- Calories: 20 kcal

- Fat: 1g

- Carbohydrates: 4g

- Protein: 0.5g

Benefits:

 - Rich in vitamins A and C, supporting immune function and skin health.

 - Contains capsaicin, which may boost metabolism and reduce inflammation.

 - Adds heat and a depth of flavor to the dish.

Sliced Cucumber and Tomatoes (Serving Portion):

- Calories: 16 kcal (1/2 cucumber and 1 small tomato)

- Fat: 0.2g

- Carbohydrates: 4g

- Protein: 1g

Benefits:

 - High in water content, helping to hydrate the body.

 - Rich in vitamins A and C, supporting immune function and skin health.

 - Adds a fresh, crisp texture and cool flavor to balance the meal.

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific brands and preparation methods.