Nasi goreng usa – Classic
This is the traditional, time-tested version of the dish. It stays true to its origins, using well-established techniques and ingredients that define its authentic flavor. A perfect starting point for exploring its evolution.
Country: 
Malaysia Servings: Serves 4
Malaysia Servings: Serves 4Nasi Goreng USA is a unique twist on traditional Malaysian fried rice, a dish that encapsulates the fusion of local culinary traditions with international influences. The dish cleverly combines the well-loved elements of fried rice with an unexpected addition of Western-style accompaniments like fried eggs and a protein of choice, often beef or chicken. The ‘USA’ acronym humorously stands for ‘Udang’, ‘Sotong’, and ‘Ayam’ (Prawns, Squid, and Chicken), rather than the United States of America, reflecting a playful twist in its naming. Rich in umami with a hint of sweetness from sautéed onions and soy sauce, this dish is both culturally and gastronomically diverse.
Ingredients
- cooked white rice – 4 cups / 800 g
- chicken breast, sliced – 200 g / 7 oz
- shrimp, peeled and deveined – 150 g / 5 oz
- squid, cleaned and sliced – 150 g / 5 oz
- eggs – 4 large
- garlic, minced – 4 cloves
- shallots, finely sliced – 2 medium
- soy sauce – 3 tbsp
- oyster sauce – 2 tbsp
- chili paste – 1 tbsp
- salt – 1 tsp
- pepper – 1/2 tsp
- spring onions, chopped – 2 stalks
- vegetable oil – 3 tbsp
Instructions
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and shallots, sauté until fragrant.
- Increase the heat to high, add chicken, shrimp, and squid. Stir-fry until the chicken is cooked through and shrimp turns pink.
- Push the mixture to one side of the pan. Add another tablespoon of oil, then add the rice. Stir well, combining with the meat and seafood.
- Mix in soy sauce, oyster sauce, chili paste, salt, and pepper. Stir until rice is evenly coated with the sauce.
- In a separate pan, fry the eggs sunny-side up using the remaining oil. Serve each portion of rice topped with a fried egg.
- Garnish with spring onions and serve hot.
Substitutions
- chicken breast -> tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option
- shrimp -> extra vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms
- squid -> firm white fish
- soy sauce -> tamari for a gluten-free option
Enhancements in the Next Evolution
- Marinate the chicken and seafood with soy sauce and garlic for 30 minutes before cooking for enhanced flavor.
- Add a squeeze of lime juice before serving for additional freshness.
- Incorporate a mix of red and green chilies for extra spiciness.
Curious to see how this dish evolves? Discover refined flavors and enhanced techniques in the next version.
