Recipe Nasi Kandar

Nasi Kandar is a popular Malaysian dish originating from Penang. It consists of steamed rice served with a variety of curries and side dishes. Known for its rich flavors and aromatic spices, Nasi Kandar is a favorite for many. This guide will provide you with the ingredients, preparation steps, tips, variations, and nutritional information you need to make Nasi Kandar at home.

Ingredients

For the Rice

• 2 cups of basmati rice
• 3 cups of water
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder (optional, for color)
• 2 tablespoons of ghee or vegetable oil

For the Curries (Chicken and Fish)

Chicken Curry

• 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
• 2 tablespoons of curry powder
• 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon of chili powder
• 2 onions, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup of coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons of tamarind paste
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons of oil

Fish Curry

• 4 pieces of firm white fish (like cod or mackerel)
• 2 tablespoons of fish curry powder
• 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon of chili powder
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
• 1 tomato, chopped
• 1 cup of tamarind juice
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons of oil

Side Dishes

• Hard-boiled eggs
• Okra (lady's fingers), boiled or steamed
• Fried eggplant slices
• Papadums

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. In a pot, heat the ghee or oil over medium heat.
3. Add the rice and stir to coat the grains with the ghee.
4. Add water, salt, and turmeric powder. Bring to a boil.
5. Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the water is absorbed.
6. Fluff the rice with a fork and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Chicken Curry

1. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onions, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until the onions are golden brown.
3. Add the curry powder, turmeric powder, and chili powder. Stir well.
4. Add the chicken pieces and cook until they are browned.
5. Add the tomatoes and cook until they are soft.
6. Stir in the coconut milk and tamarind paste. Season with salt.
7. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 30-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the curry is thickened.

Step 3: Make the Fish Curry

1. In a separate pot, heat the oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onions, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until the onions are golden brown.
3. Add the fish curry powder, turmeric powder, and chili powder. Stir well.
4. Add the fish pieces and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side.
5. Add the tomato and tamarind juice. Season with salt.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.

Step 4: Prepare the Side Dishes

1. Boil or steam the okra until tender.
2. Fry the eggplant slices until golden brown.
3. Fry or microwave the papadums according to the package instructions.
4. Boil the eggs, peel them, and set aside.

Step 5: Serve the Nasi Kandar

1. Place a serving of rice on a plate.
2. Add a piece of chicken with some curry sauce on one side.
3. Add a piece of fish with some curry sauce on the other side.
4. Arrange the boiled egg, okra, fried eggplant, and papadum around the rice.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips

• You can adjust the spiciness of the curries by varying the amount of chili powder.
• Marinating the chicken and fish with the spices for a few hours before cooking can enhance the flavors.
• For a richer taste, use coconut oil instead of vegetable oil.

Variations

• Beef Curry: Substitute the chicken with beef. Increase the cooking time to ensure the beef is tender.
• Vegetarian Option: Use tofu or mixed vegetables in place of the chicken and fish.
• Different Sides: Include other vegetables like spinach or potatoes, or different proteins like prawns.

Nutritional Information

A typical serving of Nasi Kandar (with chicken and fish curries, rice, and sides) provides approximately:

• Calories: 800-1000 kcal
• Protein: 35-40 grams
• Carbohydrates: 80-100 grams
• Fat: 30-40 grams

Conclusion

Nasi Kandar is a delightful and versatile dish that brings the flavors of Malaysia to your table. With its rich curries and variety of side dishes, it’s sure to be a hit. Enjoy experimenting with different variations and savor the delicious taste of this traditional meal.