Hello Kawan Mastah! Nasi merah is a healthy alternative to white rice. It is high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. However, cooking nasi merah can be a bit tricky. In this article, we will guide you through the steps of cooking delicious nasi merah.
Ingredients
The first step in cooking nasi merah is to gather all the necessary ingredients. Here are the ingredients you will need:
Ingredients |
Quantity |
|---|---|
Nasi merah (red rice) |
2 cups |
Water |
4 cups |
Coconut milk |
1 cup |
Garlic |
3 cloves |
Shallots |
3 cloves |
Bay leaves |
2 leaves |
Salt |
1 teaspoon |
Make sure to use good quality ingredients, as they will affect the taste and texture of the nasi merah.
Preparing the Rice
Nasi merah requires a longer cooking time than white rice. Here are the steps to prepare the rice:
Step 1: Rinse the Rice
Rinse the nasi merah thoroughly in cold water. This will remove any dirt and debris, and help to reduce the cooking time.
Step 2: Soak the Rice
Soak the nasi merah in water for at least 30 minutes. This will help to soften the grains, and reduce the cooking time. Drain the rice after soaking.
Step 3: Cook the Rice
Add 4 cups of water to a pot, and bring it to a boil. Add the rice, bay leaves, and salt to the pot, and stir well. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer the rice for 45-50 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the water has been absorbed. Check the rice occasionally to make sure it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot.
Preparing the Coconut Milk
The coconut milk is what gives nasi merah its creamy texture and rich flavor. Here are the steps to prepare the coconut milk:
Step 1: Grind the Garlic and Shallots
Peel and grind the garlic and shallots into a paste.
Step 2: Heat the Coconut Milk
In a separate pot, heat the coconut milk over low heat. Add the garlic and shallot paste, and stir well. Cook the coconut milk for 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Coconut Milk to the Rice
Once the rice is cooked, remove the bay leaves, and pour the coconut milk over the rice. Stir well, and let the rice rest for 10-15 minutes. The nasi merah is now ready to be served.
FAQ
Q: Can I use regular white rice instead of nasi merah?
A: Yes, you can use white rice instead of nasi merah. However, keep in mind that white rice is less nutritious than nasi merah.
Q: Can I use other types of milk instead of coconut milk?
A: Yes, you can use other types of milk, such as almond milk or soy milk, instead of coconut milk. However, this will affect the taste of the nasi merah.
Q: How long does nasi merah last?
A: Nasi merah can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stove before serving.
Q: Can I add other ingredients to the nasi merah?
A: Yes, you can add other ingredients, such as vegetables or spices, to the nasi merah to enhance the flavor. Be creative!
Conclusion
Cooking nasi merah may require some extra effort, but the result is well worth it. With this guide, you can now cook delicious nasi merah at home. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavors. Selamat mencoba!