Nasi kerabu – 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 Region / Locale: Kelantan Servings: Serves 4-6
Malaysia Region / Locale: Kelantan Servings: Serves 4-6Nasi Kerabu is a vibrant and aromatic rice dish hailing from the east coast regions of Malaysia, specifically Kelantan and Terengganu. Known for its eye-catching blue rice, colored with butterfly pea flowers, this dish symbolizes the rich cultural heritage of its origins. Traditionally served with an array of herbs, vegetables, and a variety of accompaniments like fish crackers and salted eggs, Nasi Kerabu offers a unique combination of flavors and textures that reflect the diverse Malaysian palate.
Ingredients
- Butterfly pea flowers – 1/2 cup / 15 g
- Rice – 2 cups / 400 g
- Water – 3 cups / 720 ml
- Grated coconut – 1 cup / 100 g
- Fish sauce – 2 tbsp / 30 ml
- Coconut milk – 1/2 cup / 120 ml
- Lemongrass stalks, bruised – 2
- Shallots, finely sliced – 4
- Ginger, minced – 1 inch / 25 g
- Bird’s eye chili, chopped – 2
- Long beans, finely sliced – 1 cup / 100 g
- Cucumber, julienned – 1
- Ulam herbs (Vietnamese mint, shredded) – 1 cup / 50 g
- Salted eggs – 2, sliced
- Fried fish crackers – 1 cup / 50 g
Instructions
- Steep butterfly pea flowers in 1 cup (240 ml) of hot water until the color releases. Strain and set aside.
- Rinse the rice until water runs clear. Cook rice with the flower-infused water and remaining 2 cups (480 ml) of water in a rice cooker.
- Dry fry the grated coconut in a pan until golden brown to prepare kerisik. Set aside.
- Mix coconut milk with fish sauce, then heat gently in a saucepan with lemongrass until just simmering. Remove from heat.
- In a large bowl, combine rice, kerisik, shallots, ginger, bird’s eye chili, long beans, and ulam herbs. Gently fold infused coconut milk through.
- Serve with cucumber, salted eggs, and fish crackers on the side.
Substitutions
- Butterfly pea flowers -> Blue food dye
- Fish sauce -> Soy sauce
- Long beans -> Green beans
- Ulam herbs -> Any fresh herbs like cilantro
Enhancements in the Next Evolution
- Enhance flavor by toasting the rice in coconut oil before cooking.
- Add marinated chicken or beef satay as a protein side.
- Use fresh turmeric in the rice for added taste and health benefits.
- Incorporate a squeeze of lime juice for extra freshness.
Curious to see how this dish evolves? Discover refined flavors and enhanced techniques in the next version.
