Nasi Rasa Bali

Nasi Rasa Bali is a vibrant and flavorful dish that originates from the island of Bali, Indonesia. This culinary delight perfectly encapsulates the Balinese culture through its use of fresh herbs, bold spices, and aromatic components. The dish is often served as part of a larger family meal and is characterized by its variety of textures and flavors.

History and Cultural Significance

The origin of nasi can be traced back to the rich culinary heritage of Indonesia, where rice is a staple food. In Bali, rice holds a special place as it is not only a primary food source but also an integral part of religious ceremonies. "Rasa" translates to "taste" in Indonesian, signifying the diverse and rich flavors embedded in this dish. Nasi Rasa Bali is a relatively modern interpretation that combines traditional Balinese elements with contemporary flair, symbolizing the ever-evolving nature of Balinese cuisine.

Ingredients

• Rice - 2 cups
• Chicken breasts - 500g
• Coconut milk - 1 cup
• Shallots - 4
• Garlic cloves - 3
• Lemongrass - 2 stalks
• Kaffir lime leaves - 4
• Turmeric - 1 tsp
• Ginger - 1 inch
• Red chili - 2
• Salt - to taste
• Palm sugar - 1 tsp
• Coriander powder - 1 tsp
• Vegetable oil - 2 tbsp
• Sambal - as a condiment

Preparation

Preparing the Ingredients

1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
2. Mince the shallots and garlic cloves finely.
3. Bruise the bottom part of the lemongrass stalks to release their flavor.
4. Chop the red chili and grate the ginger.
5. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.

Marinating the Chicken

In a bowl, mix the chicken pieces with half the minced garlic, ginger, turmeric, salt, and coriander powder. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.

Cooking Process

Cooking the Rice

1. In a pot, combine the rinsed rice with coconut milk, water, and a pinch of salt. Bring it to a boil.
2. Add the lemongrass stalks and kaffir lime leaves to the pot.
3. Reduce the heat and cover the pot, simmering for about 20-25 minutes until the rice is cooked and fragrant.

Cooking the Chicken

1. In a pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
2. Sauté the remaining shallots, garlic, and red chili until they are fragrant and slightly caramelized.
3. Add the marinated chicken into the pan and cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
4. Stir in 2 tablespoons of palm sugar to balance the flavors, allowing it to caramelize slightly with the chicken.

Serving Nasi Rasa Bali

Place the aromatic rice on a serving plate, top with the flavorful chicken, and garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or Thai basil if desired. Serve with a side of sambal for added heat and a wedge of lime for a citrusy kick.

Enjoying Nasi Rasa Bali

Dive into the rich and diverse flavors of Nasi Rasa Bali by savoring each component of the dish together. The creamy coconut rice with the spiced chicken create a harmonious taste that represents the essence of Balinese cooking. Pair the meal with a fresh cucumber salad or a light soup to complete your Balinese culinary experience.