Discover the authentic taste of Penang with this Nasi Kandar recipe. A Malaysian favorite, Nasi Kandar features steamed rice served with an array of flavorful curries, fried chicken, eggs, and more. Learn how to recreate this iconic dish at home with easy-to-follow instructions. Perfect for a hearty meal that brings the rich flavors of Malaysia to your table.

Ingredients:

For the Rice:

- 2 cups jasmine rice

- 3 cups water

- 1 pandan leaf (optional)

- Pinch of salt

For the Chicken Curry:

- 500g chicken, cut into pieces

- 2 tbsp curry powder

- 1 onion, chopped

- 3 cloves garlic, minced

- 1-inch ginger, minced

- 2 tomatoes, chopped

- 1 cup coconut milk

- 1 cup water

- Salt to taste

- Oil for cooking

For the Fish Curry:

- 500g fish fillets (mackerel or any firm white fish)

- 2 tbsp fish curry powder

- 1 onion, chopped

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 1-inch ginger, minced

- 1 cup tamarind juice

- 1 cup water

- Salt to taste

- Oil for cooking

Side Dishes:

- Boiled eggs

- Fried chicken

- Okra (lady's fingers), steamed or boiled

- Fried tofu

- Pickled vegetables

Instructions:

Cook the Rice:

  - Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear.

  - Combine the rice, water, pandan leaf, and a pinch of salt in a rice cooker or pot. Cook until the rice is fluffy and fully cooked. Set aside.

Prepare the Chicken Curry:

  - Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add chopped onions, garlic, and ginger, and sauté until fragrant.

  - Add the curry powder and stir for 1-2 minutes to release its aroma.

  - Add chicken pieces and cook until they are browned on all sides.

  - Add chopped tomatoes, coconut milk, and water. Stir well and bring to a simmer.

  - Cook until the chicken is tender and the curry thickens. Season with salt to taste.

Prepare the Fish Curry:

  - Heat oil in another pan over medium heat. Add chopped onions, garlic, and ginger, and sauté until fragrant.

  - Add the fish curry powder and stir for 1-2 minutes.

  - Add the fish fillets and cook for a few minutes on each side until lightly browned.

  - Pour in tamarind juice and water. Simmer until the fish is cooked through and the curry thickens. Season with salt.

Serve:

  - To serve Nasi Kandar, place a generous portion of rice on a plate.

  - Pour both the chicken and fish curries over the rice, allowing the flavors to mix.

  - Add side dishes like boiled eggs, fried chicken, okra, fried tofu, and pickled vegetables.

  - Enjoy your meal!

This recipe brings the essence of Penang’s street food right to your kitchen. Mix and match curries and side dishes to suit your taste!

Nutritional Values

Rice (Jasmine Rice)

- Calories: 130

- Carbohydrates: 28g

- Protein: 2.4g

- Fat: 0.2g

- Fiber: 0.4g

Benefits:

- Provides a quick source of energy due to its high carbohydrate content.

- Low in fat, making it a good option for a low-fat diet.

- Versatile and a staple in many diets, pairing well with various dishes.

Chicken

- Calories: 165

- Carbohydrates: 0g

- Protein: 31g

- Fat: 3.6g

- Fiber: 0g

Benefits:

- High in protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.

- Rich in B vitamins that support energy metabolism and brain function.

- Low in carbohydrates, suitable for low-carb and ketogenic diets.

Coconut Milk

- Calories: 230

- Carbohydrates: 6g

- Protein: 2g

- Fat: 24g

- Fiber: 2g

Benefits:

- Contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which can boost metabolism.

- Provides iron, magnesium, and potassium.

- The healthy fats in coconut milk can help reduce cholesterol levels.

Fish (Mackerel or White Fish)

- Calories: 205

- Carbohydrates: 0g

- Protein: 20g

- Fat: 13g

- Fiber: 0g

Benefits:

- High in omega-3 fatty acids, supporting heart health and brain function.

- Rich in protein, helping with muscle maintenance and repair.

- A good source of vitamin D, important for bone health and immune function.

Boiled Eggs

- Calories: 70

- Carbohydrates: 0.6g

- Protein: 6g

- Fat: 5g

- Fiber: 0g

Benefits:

- High-quality protein that provides all essential amino acids.

- Rich in vitamins A, B5, B12, and choline, which are important for metabolism and brain health.

- Contains lutein and zeaxanthin, beneficial for eye health.

Okra (Lady's Fingers)

- Calories: 33

- Carbohydrates: 7g

- Protein: 2g

- Fat: 0.2g

- Fiber: 3g

Benefits:

- High in fiber, supporting digestive health and blood sugar control.

- Rich in vitamins C, K, and folate.

- Contains antioxidants that help fight inflammation.

Fried Tofu

- Calories: 144

- Carbohydrates: 2g

- Protein: 15g

- Fat: 8g

- Fiber: 1g

Benefits:

- A great plant-based protein source.

- Rich in iron and calcium, supporting bone health and energy production.

- Low in carbohydrates, suitable for low-carb diets.

Pickled Vegetables

- Calories: 15-30

- Carbohydrates: 3-7g

- Protein: 0-1g

- Fat: 0g

- Fiber: 1-2g

Benefits:

- Can aid in digestive health and boost gut flora due to probiotics.

- Low in calories, providing flavor without adding many calories.

- Depending on the vegetable, it can be high in vitamins and minerals.

These ingredients together offer a well-rounded mix of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, and essential vitamins and minerals, making Nasi Kandar a nutritious and satisfying meal.