National Dish Indonesia: Nasi Campur (Recipe)
In this article
Discover Nasi Campur, a true celebration of Indonesian cooking served on a single, colourful plate! This generous rice dish brings together fragrant jasmine rice, a choice of meat or tofu, crisp vegetables and bold, aromatic sauces. Every region puts its own spin on it, so no two plates are ever quite the same. Whether you fancy something hearty or light, this endlessly adaptable classic lets you build your own perfect mouthful and dive straight into the flavours of Indonesia.
About Nasi Campur
Nasi Campur is far more than a single dish; it is a genuine celebration of Indonesian cuisine. This wonderfully varied rice plate draws together a wealth of flavours and ingredients enjoyed across the many regions of Indonesia. Tender, fragrant jasmine rice forms the foundation and is paired with a selection of meat, vegetables and a handful of sensational sauces. No visit to Indonesia would be complete without sampling the delicious variety this dish has to offer.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 200g jasmine rice
- 100g chicken breast or tofu
- 50g cooked vegetables (e.g. broccoli, carrots)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sambal oelek (Indonesian chilli paste)
- 1 tablespoon peanuts, roughly chopped
- Fresh herbs (e.g. coriander)
Shopping for the ingredients
When preparing nasi campur, choosing fresh, good-quality ingredients makes all the difference. The best place to start is a local Asian market, where you can pick up fragrant jasmine rice and authentic Indonesian staples such as sambal oelek. Many of these markets also stock a fine range of fresh vegetables and herbs, which adds to the overall quality of your dish. Be sure to keep an eye out for vegan and vegetarian substitutes too, depending on your dietary needs.
Preparing the dish
Preparing nasi campur takes a little planning, especially if you want to include a wide range of ingredients. Begin by rinsing the rice and cooking it according to the packet instructions. While the rice simmers away, you can fry off the chicken or tofu and steam the vegetables. The exact choice of ingredients varies from region to region and cook to cook, which makes this a wonderfully flexible dish to put together.
Step-by-step instructions
- Bring the jasmine rice to the boil in a pan of water and cook for 15–20 minutes until tender.
- In a frying pan, sauté the chicken or tofu in a little oil until golden brown.
- Add the steamed vegetables and continue to fry for 2–3 minutes.
- Stir in the soy sauce and sambal oelek and combine well.
- Arrange the rice on a plate and spoon the mixtures over the top.
- Garnish with the chopped peanuts and fresh herbs.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
Nasi campur is easy to make gluten-free by swapping in a gluten-free soy sauce. This small change makes the dish suitable for anyone with coeliac disease or a gluten intolerance. Choosing tofu or another gluten-free protein in place of the chicken keeps it accessible for everyone too. Just take care to check that all the other ingredients you use are also gluten-free.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
Vegans and vegetarians can adapt nasi campur with ease, simply by replacing the meat with tofu, tempeh or another plant-based protein. You can also get creative with the vegetables and make the most of seasonal produce. By adjusting the spices to suit, you can keep the deep, satisfying flavour everyone loves. The dish stays just as varied and tasty — entirely free of animal products!
More tips and tricks
Making a perfect nasi campur takes a little practice, but a few simple tips will lift both the look and the quality of your plate. Use the freshest ingredients you can find to bring out the very best flavour. Vary the sauces to match your own taste and your appetite for experimenting, and you will keep discovering new flavour combinations. Let your creative streak run free and try out different sides and garnishes.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
Another great advantage of nasi campur is just how easily it can be adapted to personal preference. Feel free to use your favourite vegetables or your preferred source of protein. You can also dial the heat up or down by adding more or less sambal oelek. Give your imagination free rein and build your own perfect plate of nasi campur!
Ingredient substitutions
There are plenty of excellent substitutes for many of the ingredients in nasi campur. If chicken is not to your liking, for instance, you could reach for beef, fish or a fully plant-based option such as the protein-packed soy of Tempe Bacem. When it comes to the sauces, a range of different flavours can be used to enrich the dish and introduce fresh new notes. Experiment a little and discover your own personal highlight!
Drink pairing ideas
Nasi campur pairs beautifully with all sorts of drinks. Traditionally, Indonesian teas such as teh tarik or a good coffee are recommended. For an alcoholic option, a light lager or a fruity white wine sits nicely alongside it. Fresh juice blends or a cooling coconut drink make perfect companions too, much like the iced refreshment of Es Doger.
Serving and presentation ideas
Presentation can do a great deal for the overall nasi campur experience. Serve the dish in a shallow, white bowl to let the vibrant colours stand out. Decorate with fresh herbs and chopped peanuts for an appealing finish. The way you arrange the different components can be styled creatively too, helping you create an inviting, eye-catching plate.
A bit of history
Nasi campur has its roots deep in Indonesian culture and is often regarded as a true comfort dish. It is a meal found in countless homes and restaurants alike, reflecting the sheer variety of Indonesian cooking. Historically, the central elements of nasi campur depended on whatever was available locally, which gave rise to a host of different regional variations. In this way, local specialities and the culinary creativity of each cook are brought together on a single plate — a hallmark of Indonesian cuisine.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Nasi Campur
Nasi campur is a genuine highlight of Indonesian cuisine, served as a colourful arrangement of rice, a variety of fillings and delicious sauces. That makes it not only a feast for the palate but also a wonderful way to experience the cultural diversity of Indonesia. Whether vegetarian, vegan or with meat, the flexibility and the many variations make nasi campur a dish that brings joy to food lovers of every kind. Get ready to create your very own version of nasi campur and immerse yourself in the flavours of Indonesia!
