| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 25 mins | Difficulty: Moderate | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 240 | 8g | 6g | 32g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 1g | 2g | 3g | 0.4g |
There’s something truly magical about the combination of flavors in the dish Nasi Kencur (Kencur Rice): Traditional Indonesian rice dish flavored with Kencur. It melds fragrant jasmine rice with the aromatic essence of kencur, ginger, and coconut milk, resulting in a dish that is as comforting as it is exotic. The first time I encountered this recipe, I was immediately taken back to the vibrant, bustling markets of Jakarta and the lush, green landscapes of Indonesia where these ingredients are often used in daily cooking.
Aromatic and Flavorful
What really excites me about Nasi Kencur is its remarkable aroma that fills the kitchen, thanks to the unique combination of kencur, lemongrass, and kaffir lime leaves. These ingredients work harmoniously to create a sensory experience that is both complex and deeply satisfying. The subtle heat from the turmeric powder and ginger adds a gentle warmth that is balanced perfectly by the creamy coconut milk, making each bite a symphony of flavors.
For someone who loves to explore different culinary traditions, this dish is a fascinating study in the way that simple ingredients can be transformed into something that feels luxurious. It’s reminiscent of other Southeast Asian dishes like Thai Khao Pad or the fragrant Nasi Lemak of Malaysia, yet it stands out because of the distinctive flavor of kencur, an ingredient that doesn’t frequently make its way into American kitchens.
Health Benefits
One of the added benefits of preparing Nasi Kencur is its nutritional value. Kencur, also known as aromatic ginger, is noted for its anti-inflammatory and digestive properties. The dish is also balanced with the good fats from coconut milk, which has been shown to support heart health. Turmeric, another key component, is famous for its antioxidant properties. It’s a dish that not only tantalizes the taste buds but also provides a host of health benefits that contribute to overall well-being.
This recipe is versatile and can be paired with a variety of other Southeast Asian dishes. For a complete meal, you could serve it alongside Indonesian Gado Gado, a mixed salad with a rich peanut sauce, or a succulent Sate Ayam (chicken satay). You might also find that it pairs beautifully with a simple grilled fish or even a tofu stir-fry for a vegetarian option.
Ultimately, Nasi Kencur has become one of those go-to recipes in my kitchen because it brings together the warmth of home with the allure of distant places, all while being both nutritious and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re looking to expand your culinary horizons or seeking a unique, flavorful dish to impress guests, this recipe is a winner every time. It’s a beautiful example of how cooking can be both an adventure and a means to connect with different cultures, all from the comfort of your own home.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups of jasmine rice
- 3 cups of water
- 4 tablespoons of grated kencur (Kaempferia galanga)
- 1 tablespoon of grated ginger
- 1/2 cup of coconut milk
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
- 2 kaffir lime leaves
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 1 lemongrass stalk, bruised
- 1 tablespoon of fried shallots (for garnish)
- Banana leaves (optional, for serving)
Method
Step One
Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky.
Step Two
In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or rice cooker, combine the rinsed jasmine rice and 3 cups of water. Add the grated kencur, grated ginger, turmeric powder, and salt. Stir to mix the ingredients evenly.
Step Three
Add the coconut milk, kaffir lime leaves, and bruised lemongrass stalk to the pot. Stir gently to distribute the ingredients.
Step Four
Place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer. If using a rice cooker, simply set it to cook mode.
Step Five
Meanwhile, in a small pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the grated kencur and grated ginger. Sauté for a few minutes until fragrant but not burnt, then set aside.
Step Six
Check the rice after about 15-20 minutes to see if it has absorbed all the liquid and is fully cooked. If not, cook for a few more minutes, adding a little more water if necessary.
Step Seven
Once the rice is cooked, remove the lemongrass stalk and kaffir lime leaves. Fluff the rice with a fork to distribute the spices and kencur mixture evenly.
Step Eight
For serving, you can optionally line a serving dish with banana leaves for an authentic touch. Scoop the Nasi Kencur onto the dish.
Step Nine
Garnish with fried shallots before serving. Enjoy your traditional Indonesian Nasi Kencur!
