A Mouth-Watering Taste of Malaysia: The Delightful Nasi Kerabu

Introduction

Nasi Kerabu, a traditional Malaysian dish, is gaining popularity both locally and internationally. The blue rice dish is a feast for both the eyes and taste buds. The dish originates from Kelantan, a state located at the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia. Nasi Kerabu has a unique blend of flavors, colors, and textures, making it a must-try for food enthusiasts.

Ingredients

The basic ingredients of Nasi Kerabu include:

Rice
Butterfly Pea Flower
Coconut Milk
Lemongrass
Ginger
Galangal
Kaffir Lime Leaves
Turmeric
Shallots
Garlic
Dried Shrimp
Fried Coconut Flakes
Fried Salted Fish
Bean Sprouts
Long Beans
Cucumber
Herbs (such as Vietnamese Coriander and Wild Betel Leaf)
Bird's Eye Chili

The ingredients may vary depending on the region and personal preference.

The blue color of the rice is achieved by using Butterfly Pea Flower, which is boiled with the rice. The flower is a natural food coloring and has no additional flavor. Coconut milk adds richness and creaminess to the rice. The herbs and spices give the rice a unique aroma and flavor.

Preparation

To prepare the rice, the Butterfly Pea Flower is boiled with water and added to the rice. The rice is then cooked with coconut milk, lemongrass, ginger, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves. The herbs and spices are fried with shallots and garlic and added to the rice. The dried shrimp and fried coconut flakes are added for texture and flavor.

The side dishes include:

Fried Salted Fish
Bean Sprouts
Long Beans
Cucumber
Herbs (such as Vietnamese Coriander and Wild Betel Leaf)
Bird's Eye Chili

The salted fish is usually fried until crispy and served whole. The vegetables and herbs are blanched and served as a side salad. The bird's eye chili is sliced and served as a condiment.

Nasi Kerabu is usually served on a banana leaf, adding to the traditional feel of the dish. This dish is often enjoyed with a cup of iced coconut water or a glass of sweetened iced tea.

History

Nasi Kerabu is believed to have originated from the state of Kelantan, where it is commonly consumed for breakfast. The dish was traditionally prepared by farmers and fishermen who used local ingredients and herbs from the area.

The name "Kerabu" means salad in Malay. The dish is served with an assortment of herbs and vegetables, which are known as ulam. Ulam is often used in traditional Malay cuisine and is believed to have medicinal properties.

Today, Nasi Kerabu is a popular dish, not only in Kelantan but throughout Malaysia. It has gained recognition both locally and internationally, with many food bloggers and enthusiasts sharing their own versions of the recipe.

Conclusion

Nasi Kerabu is a unique and flavorful dish that represents the rich culture and heritage of Malaysia. It is a beautiful blend of flavors and colors, and it is a must-try for food enthusiasts and travelers to Malaysia. Whether you are a fan of rice dishes or looking to try traditional Malay cuisine, Nasi Kerabu is definitely a dish that you should add to your list.