Vegetarian Nasi Lemak
Malaysian • halal_safe
How to Make Vegetarian Nasi Lemak (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Vegetarian Nasi Lemak brings together the rich flavors of coconut-infused rice, spicy sambal, crunchy peanuts, and fresh cucumber—perfect for a wholesome Indian breakfast. While Nasi Lemak is a traditional Malaysian dish, it has found a warm place in the hearts of Indian food lovers, especially in regions with historical Malay influence such as parts of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. This vegetarian adaptation uses local ingredients like basmati chawal, coconut milk, and homemade sambal, making it ideal for those looking for a health-conscious, protein-rich start to their day. The taste of Nasi Lemak is a delightful balance of creamy, spicy, and tangy profiles, complemented by the wholesome crunch of roasted peanuts and the freshness of salad vegetables. It’s often enjoyed during festive mornings or special family breakfasts, and its versatility makes it a favorite for both young and old. The Indian twist adds a touch of local masalas and readily available produce, making it an accessible and nutritious meal for anyone following a vegetarian or plant-based diet.
Ingredients(for 1 large bowl with accompaniments)
- 1 cup Basmati chawal (rice) (soaked for 20 minutes)
- 1 cup Coconut milk (fresh or tetra pack)
- 1 cup Water
- 1/2 tsp Salt (namak)
- 2 tbsp Peanuts (roasted, unsalted)
- 1 small Cucumber (sliced)
- 2 Boiled eggs (omit for vegan version) - optional
- 1 small Onion (finely sliced)
- 1/2 tsp Red chili powder (lal mirch)
- 1 tbsp Tamarind pulp (imli)
- 1 tsp Jaggery (gur, grated) - optional
- 1 tsp Oil (preferably cold-pressed)
Instructions
- 1
Rinse and soak basmati chawal for 20 minutes. Drain and set aside.
5 minutes
Use aged basmati for fluffier rice.
- 2
In a heavy-bottomed pan, add the soaked rice, coconut milk, water, and salt. Cook on low heat until rice is soft and fragrant.
15 minutes
Do not over-stir to keep grains separate.
- 3
While rice cooks, heat oil in a tawa. Sauté sliced onions until golden. Add red chili powder, tamarind pulp, and jaggery. Sauté until mixture thickens to make sambal.
8 minutes
Adjust spice to taste for milder sambal.
- 4
Roast peanuts on a low flame until crunchy. Slice cucumber and arrange on a plate.
3 minutes
Dry roast for oil-free version.
Why This Dish is Healthy
By using minimal oil, fresh vegetables, and whole foods, this dish maintains a low glycemic index. Coconut milk offers medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) that aid metabolism. Roasted peanuts and basmati rice provide sustained energy, making this a wholesome option for weight loss, diabetic control, and balanced nutrition.
This Vegetarian Nasi Lemak is rich in complex carbohydrates from basmati chawal, healthy fats from coconut milk, and plant protein from peanuts. It contains essential vitamins such as B-complex from rice and minerals like magnesium and potassium. The inclusion of cucumber adds hydration and fiber, while the sambal provides antioxidants from onions, tamarind, and chili. Omitting eggs makes it vegan and cholesterol-free.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Use freshly extracted coconut milk for authentic flavor.
- 💡Tip 2: Add a pandan leaf while cooking rice for extra aroma.
- 💡Tip 3: Keep sambal and rice portions ready for quick assembling during busy mornings.
Storage & Serving
Store leftover rice and sambal separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before serving. Fresh vegetables and peanuts are best added just before eating.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 430.0 kcal |
