Authentic Malaysian Nasi Lemak

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Authentic Malaysian Nasi Lemak.

1. Step 1

   To create a delicious coconut rice dish, start by grabbing a medium saucepan.

2. Step 2

   In it, combine creamy coconut milk, water, long grain rice, fresh ginger, ground ginger, a bay leaf, and a pinch of salt.

3. Step 3

   Give everything a good stir to blend the flavors together.

4. Step 4

   Cover the saucepan and place it over medium heat, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil.

5. Step 5

   Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20 to 30 minutes, or until the rice is perfectly tender and fluffy.

6. Step 6

   When the rice is done, remember to remove the bay leaf and keep the rice warm while you whip up the garnishes and sauce.

7. Step 7

   Next, let’s move to a large skillet.

8. Step 8

   Pour in 1 cup of vegetable oil and heat it over medium-high heat.

9. Step 9

   Once the oil is hot, toss in the peanuts and cook them for a few minutes until they turn a lovely golden brown.

10. Step 10

    Use a slotted spoon to remove the peanuts and place them on paper towels to soak up any excess oil.

11. Step 11

    Now, return the skillet to the heat and add the anchovies.

12. Step 12

    Cook them for about 2 to 3 minutes, turning them occasionally until they become crispy.

13. Step 13

    Again, use the slotted spoon to take them out and set them aside on paper towels.

14. Step 14

    Carefully discard the oil from the skillet and give it a quick wipe to clean it up.

15. Step 15

    In the same skillet, add a splash of oil and toss in chopped onion, shallots, and garlic.

16. Step 16

    Sauté these aromatic ingredients for about 1 to 2 minutes until they fill your kitchen with a delightful fragrance.

17. Step 17

    Stir in some chile paste and let it cook for 10 minutes, adding a little water if the mixture starts to dry out.

18. Step 18

    After that, return the crispy anchovies to the skillet and let them mingle with the flavors for another 5 minutes.

19. Step 19

    Now, it’s time to add tamarind juice, a sprinkle of sugar, and a pinch of salt.

20. Step 20

    Allow the sauce to simmer until it thickens beautifully, which should take about 5 minutes.

21. Step 21

    When you’re ready to serve, ladle the warm coconut rice into bowls.

22. Step 22

    Generously top it with the spicy sauce, then sprinkle on the fried peanuts, crispy anchovies, and add some hard-boiled eggs and fresh cucumber slices for a refreshing crunch.

23. Step 23

    Enjoy this vibrant dish that’s bursting with flavor and texture, perfect for sharing with family and friends!.