Nasi Lemak
Global • non_veg
About Nasi Lemak
Coconut rice with sambal, anchovies, peanuts, egg, and cucumber
How to Make Nasi Lemak (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Nasi Lemak is Malaysia’s iconic breakfast dish, beloved across the nation for its fragrant coconut rice, spicy sambal, crunchy ikan bilis, and a medley of sides that reflect Malaysia’s rich multicultural heritage. Traditionally wrapped in banana leaves, Nasi Lemak can be found from bustling city kopitiams to rural morning markets, enjoyed by Malays, Chinese, Indians, and all Malaysians alike. The name 'Nasi Lemak' means 'rich rice' in Malay, referring to the creamy, aromatic rice cooked with santan (coconut milk) and pandan leaves, giving it a distinctive flavor and inviting aroma. The taste is a harmonious blend of savory, spicy, and slightly sweet notes, making it a comforting and satisfying meal. This healthier version uses lighter santan and less oil, while keeping all the authentic flavors and textures that make Nasi Lemak so special. With local ingredients like bunga telang (blue pea flower) for natural coloring and lemongrass for extra fragrance, this recipe brings out the best of Malaysia’s local produce. Nasi Lemak is more than just a meal; it’s a symbol of unity and pride, perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Ingredients(for 1 plate with rice, sambal, egg, ikan bilis, cucumber, and peanuts)
- 1 cup White rice (Jasmine or local rice)
- 3/4 cup Santan (light coconut milk) (Light version for lower calories)
- 2 leaves Pandan leaves (Tie into a knot for fragrance)
- 1/4 tsp Salt
- 2 Eggs (Hard-boiled)
- 1/4 cup Ikan bilis (dried anchovies) (Rinsed and drained)
- 1/4 cup Peanuts (Dry-roasted, unsalted)
- 1/2 Cucumber (Sliced thinly)
- 1/2 Red onion (Sliced) - optional
- 1/2 cup Sambal (see below)
- 1 tbsp Oil (Preferably canola or sunflower)
Instructions
- 1
Rinse rice until water runs clear. In a rice cooker or pot, combine rice, santan, pandan leaves, salt, and enough water to reach the 1-cup mark. Cook until fluffy and aromatic.
15 minutes
For extra fragrance, bruise the pandan leaves before adding.
- 2
While rice cooks, hard-boil the eggs (10 minutes), then cool and peel. Slice eggs in half for serving.
10 minutes
Start eggs in cold water for easier peeling.
- 3
Dry-roast peanuts in a pan over medium heat until golden. Set aside. In the same pan, lightly toast ikan bilis with a few drops of oil until crisp. Drain on paper towels.
8 minutes
Keep ikan bilis in a single layer for even crispiness.
- 4
Slice cucumber and red onion thinly. Arrange on a serving plate.
2 minutes
Use fresh, crunchy cucumber for the best texture.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This healthy Nasi Lemak recipe uses lighter coconut milk, less oil, and roasted rather than deep-fried toppings, making it suitable for calorie-conscious eaters. High in protein and fiber, yet moderate in carbs and fats, it delivers long-lasting energy for breakfast without excess calories. Fresh local ingredients and portion control help support heart health and weight management.
Nasi Lemak, when prepared with light santan and roasted rather than fried components, offers a balanced mix of complex carbohydrates from rice, quality proteins from eggs and ikan bilis, and healthy fats from peanuts. Vitamins like B6 and E are present in peanuts, while cucumber and onions provide fiber and antioxidants. The use of local spices and minimal oil helps keep saturated fat in check, making this a nourishing meal option.
Pro Tips
- 💡Wash rice thoroughly to ensure fluffy texture and prevent stickiness.
- 💡Use freshly grated coconut for the most authentic santan flavor if available.
- 💡Toast ikan bilis and peanuts just before serving for maximum crunch.
Storage & Serving
Store rice, sambal, and sides separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat rice and sambal before serving; keep cucumber and peanuts fresh until ready to eat.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Protein | 5.2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 28.0 g |
| Total Fat | 9.5 g |
| Energy | 220.0 kcal |
| Fiber | 2.1 g |
| Sugars | 1.2 g |
| Iron | 1.1 mg |
| Calcium | 18.0 mg |
