Discover the authentic flavors of Malaysia with this Nasi Lemak recipe. Learn how to make this delicious and fragrant coconut rice dish, served with spicy sambal, crispy anchovies, boiled egg, peanuts, and fresh cucumber. Perfect for a satisfying meal, this traditional dish is a must-try for anyone who loves bold, savory flavors. Follow our step-by-step guide to recreate this classic Nasi Lemak at home.

Ingredients:

For the Rice:

- 2 cups of jasmine rice

- 1 cup coconut milk

- 1 1/2 cups water

- 2 pandan leaves (optional)

- 1 tsp salt

For the Sambal:

- 1/2 cup dried chilies (soaked and blended)

- 3 shallots (finely chopped)

- 2 cloves garlic (finely chopped)

- 1 tbsp shrimp paste (belacan)

- 1 tbsp tamarind paste

- 1 tbsp sugar

- Salt to taste

- 2 tbsp oil

Toppings:

- 4 boiled eggs (halved)

- 1/2 cup dried anchovies (fried until crispy)

- 1/2 cup roasted peanuts

- 1 cucumber (sliced)

Instructions:

Cook the Rice:

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

  - In a rice cooker or pot, combine the rice, coconut milk, water, pandan leaves, and salt. Stir well.

  - Cook until the rice is done and fragrant. Fluff the rice with a fork and set aside.

Prepare the Sambal:

  - Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add chopped shallots, garlic, and shrimp paste, and sauté until fragrant.

  - Add the blended dried chilies and cook until the sambal thickens and oil separates.

  - Stir in tamarind paste, sugar, and salt. Adjust seasoning to taste and cook for another 2-3 minutes.

Prepare the Toppings:

  - Boil the eggs, peel, and cut them in half.

  - Fry the dried anchovies until crispy and set aside.

  - Roast the peanuts until golden brown.

Assemble the Dish:

  - Serve a portion of coconut rice on a plate.

  - Arrange sambal, boiled egg halves, fried anchovies, roasted peanuts, and cucumber slices around the rice.

  - Enjoy your Nasi Lemak with a combination of flavors in every bite!

Notes:

- For an extra protein boost, you can add fried chicken or rendang (spiced meat stew) to your Nasi Lemak.

- Adjust the spiciness of the sambal by adding or reducing the number of chilies.

Nutritional Values

Jasmine Rice

 - Calories: 205

 - Carbohydrates: 45g

 - Protein: 4g

 - Fat: 0.4g

 - Fiber: 0.6g

Benefits:

 - Provides energy through complex carbohydrates.

 - Low in fat and cholesterol-free, making it a heart-healthy choice.

Coconut Milk

 - Calories: 552

 - Carbohydrates: 13g

 - Protein: 5g

 - Fat: 57g

 - Fiber: 5g

Benefits:

 - Rich in healthy fats (medium-chain triglycerides) that provide quick energy.

 - Contains vitamins and minerals like iron, magnesium, and potassium.

Pandan Leaves

 - Pandan leaves are primarily used for flavoring and contain negligible calories and nutrients.

Benefits:

 - Known for their pleasant aroma and potential antioxidant properties.

Dried Chilies 

 - Calories: 18

 - Carbohydrates: 4g

 - Protein: 0.7g

 - Fat: 0.5g

 - Fiber: 1g

Benefits:

 - Rich in vitamins A and C.

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

Shallots

 - Calories: 23

 - Carbohydrates: 5g

 - Protein: 0.6g

 - Fat: 0g

 - Fiber: 1g

Benefits:

 - Good source of vitamins B6 and C.

 - Contains antioxidants that may support immune function and cardiovascular health.

Garlic

 - Calories: 4

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Protein: 0.2g

 - Fat: 0g

 - Fiber: 0.1g

Benefits:

 - Contains allicin, known for its potential antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects.

 - Supports heart health by helping to lower cholesterol levels.

Shrimp Paste (Belacan)

 - Calories: 45

 - Carbohydrates: 2g

 - Protein: 6g

 - Fat: 1g

 - Sodium: 1000mg

Benefits:

 - Provides protein and adds umami flavor to dishes.

 - High in sodium, so use in moderation.

Tamarind Paste

 - Calories: 29

 - Carbohydrates: 7g

 - Protein: 0.5g

 - Fat: 0g

 - Fiber: 1.5g

Benefits:

 - Rich in antioxidants, vitamins C and B.

 - Aids digestion and has potential anti-inflammatory properties.

Sugar

 - Calories: 49

 - Carbohydrates: 13g

 - Protein: 0g

 - Fat: 0g

Benefits:

 - Provides quick energy but should be used in moderation to avoid excessive calorie intake.

Salt

 - Sodium: 2300mg

Benefits:

 - Essential for fluid balance and nerve function.

 - Excessive consumption can lead to high blood pressure, so use sparingly.

Boiled Eggs

 - Calories: 72

 - Carbohydrates: 0.6g

 - Protein: 6g

 - Fat: 5g

Benefits: 

 - Excellent source of high-quality protein and essential vitamins (B12, D).

 - Contains choline, important for brain health.

Fried Anchovies

 - Calories: 100

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

 - Protein: 10g

 - Fat: 6g

Benefits: 

 - Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health.

 - Good source of calcium and protein.

Roasted Peanuts

 - Calories: 200

 - Carbohydrates: 6g

 - Protein: 8g

 - Fat: 18g

Benefits:

 - Provides protein, healthy fats, and fiber.

 - Contains vitamins and minerals like vitamin E, magnesium, and potassium.

Cucumber 

 - Calories: 8

 - Carbohydrates: 2g

 - Protein: 0.3g

 - Fat: 0g

 - Fiber: 0.5g

Benefits: 

 - Low in calories and high in water content, which helps with hydration.

 - Contains antioxidants like vitamin C.

Enjoy your Nasi Lemak with the added benefits of these nutritious ingredients!