Authentic Nasi Bakar from Indonesia — traditional Indonesian main dish with step-by-step cooking instructions

Nasi Bakar: Grilled Rice in Banana Leaf

★★★★☆4.5
|Editor's rating

Steamed rice mixed with spicy seasoning, wrapped in banana leaves, and grilled over charcoal until the leaves are charred and the rice is infused with smoky fragrance.

🗺️ Origin: Indonesia⏱ Time: 30 mins👥 Servings: 4 servings📊 Difficulty: Medium
📋 Recipe
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Tested by NusantaraEats Kitchen·Last updated: 29 June 2026

📑 In This Guide

🛒 Ingredients👨‍🍳 Instructions FAQ

💡 Did You Know?

This authentic recipe has been passed down through generations, preserving the rich flavors of Indonesian cuisine.

🛒 Ingredients

  • 400 g steamed rice
  • 100 g shredded chicken or fish
  • 3 red chilies, sliced
  • 2 tbsp sweet soy sauce
  • 2 shallots, thinly sliced
  • 3 kaffir lime leaves, shredded
  • 1 tsp salt
  • Banana leaves for wrapping
  • Toothpicks or bamboo sticks
  • Sambal and fried chicken for serving

👨‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Mix steamed rice with sliced chilies, shallots, kaffir lime leaves, salt, and sweet soy sauce.
  2. Lay out banana leaf rectangles on a flat surface.
  3. Place a portion of seasoned rice in the center of each leaf.
  4. Top with shredded chicken or fish.
  5. Fold the banana leaf tightly around the rice, securing with toothpicks.
  6. Grill over medium charcoal heat for 5-7 minutes per side.
  7. The banana leaves should be charred but not burnt.
  8. Remove from grill, unwrap, and serve hot with sambal.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Nasi Bakar: Grilled Rice in Banana Leaf?

Steamed rice mixed with spicy seasoning, wrapped in banana leaves, and grilled over charcoal until the leaves are charred and the rice is infused with smoky fragrance.

Where does Nasi Bakar: Grilled Rice in Banana Leaf come from?

Nasi Bakar: Grilled Rice in Banana Leaf originates from Indonesia. It is a beloved traditional dish that has been passed down through generations of Indonesian cooks.

Is Nasi Bakar: Grilled Rice in Banana Leaf difficult to make?

Nasi Bakar: Grilled Rice in Banana Leaf requires moderate cooking skills. While the steps are clear, some techniques need practice.

How can I adjust the spiciness of Nasi Bakar: Grilled Rice in Banana Leaf?

The spiciness can be easily adjusted by modifying the amount of chili peppers. For milder versions, reduce or omit the bird's eye chilies (cabe rawit).

How do I store leftover Nasi Bakar: Grilled Rice in Banana Leaf?

Store leftover Nasi Bakar: Grilled Rice in Banana Leaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. The flavors actually improve overnight as the spices continue to meld.

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Recipe researched by the NusantaraEats Editorial Team

This recipe has been carefully researched, tested, and documented to preserve authentic Indonesian culinary traditions. Sources include traditional cookbooks, regional culinary experts, and cultural heritage references from Indonesia.

📚 Traditional Indonesian Cookbooks🏛️ Cultural Heritage References👨‍🍳 Regional Culinary Experts
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