Have you ever eaten a meal and felt like something was missing? In Indonesia, that “something” is always rice, or nasi. Here, a meal isn’t considered complete without it. Whether it is a quick meal or a feast, rice is always the star of the show. And not just plain rice--there are so many unique ways to enjoy it!
I have had the chance to try several types of rice dishes here, and each one is full of flavor! Nasi goreng, or fried rice, is a classic comfort food that’s smoky and satisfying, often served with a fried egg on top and is usually eaten for breakfast. Nasi kuning, with its bright yellow color from turmeric, is often accompanied by festive side dishes. Nasi uduk, cooked with coconut milk, is rich and delicious; served with spicy sambal and crispy fried shallots.
One dish that really stood out to me is nasi padang, which comes from West Sumatra. It is not just a dish--it is a full dining experience! The rice is served with a variety of side dishes, like tender beef rendang, spicy sambal, and jackfruit curry. It is laid out like a feast, and you can mix and match the flavors however you like.
