Nasi Minyak

Nasi Minyak or oil rice is cooked with clarified butter and a mixture of five types of spices. Many recognized this fragrant rice from its significant shade of bright yellow. This rice is widely popular in Indonesia, Malaysia and also Singapore.

Nasi Minyak is a fragrant rice dish enjoyed with curries and other side dishes. Literally translated from Malay, nasi minyak means oil rice. It is probably named after one of the main ingredients, clarified butter which is also known as ghee. It gives off a wonderful aroma which can be detected miles away. Besides that, the amazing combination of spices such as star anise, cinnamon, cardamom and others give the dish a fantastic fragrance and flavour.

Originally from Indonesia, nasi minyak is influenced by the culture of Middle Eastern cooking. The dish was special as it was only served to the Sultan of Palembang (in Indonesia) and the royal guests. As the times passed by, the dish became more common but it is still associated with big celebrations. In neighbouring countries like Singapore and Malaysia, nasi minyak is mainly served to commemorate weddings or the Muslim's thanksgiving ceremony.