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

Nasi Empal: Sweet Fried Beef with Rice

★★★★☆4.5
|Editor's rating

Sweet and savory fried beef served with steamed rice, a Javanese specialty.

🗺️ Origin: Indonesia⏱ Time: 30 mins👥 Servings: 4 servings📊 Difficulty: Medium
📋 Recipe
NE
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

  • 500g beef shank
  • 400ml coconut milk
  • 5 shallots
  • 3 garlic cloves
  • 2 cm galangal
  • 1 tsp coriander
  • 2 tbsp palm sugar
  • Salt to taste
  • Oil for frying

👨‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Boil beef with spices until tender
  2. Remove and let cool slightly
  3. Shred beef with mortar and pestle
  4. Simmer shredded beef in coconut milk with palm sugar
  5. Fry until crispy and caramelized
  6. Serve with steamed rice and sambal

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Nasi Empal: Sweet Fried Beef with Rice?

Sweet and savory fried beef served with steamed rice, a Javanese specialty.

Where does Nasi Empal: Sweet Fried Beef with Rice come from?

Nasi Empal: Sweet Fried Beef with Rice originates from Indonesia. It is a beloved traditional dish that has been passed down through generations of Indonesian cooks.

What makes Nasi Empal: Sweet Fried Beef with Rice different from other Indonesian meat dishes?

The key distinction lies in the spice blend and cooking method. Nasi Empal: Sweet Fried Beef with Rice uses a rich ground spice paste that sets it apart. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat.

Is Nasi Empal: Sweet Fried Beef with Rice difficult to make?

Nasi Empal: Sweet Fried Beef with Rice requires moderate cooking skills. While the steps are clear, some techniques need practice.

Can I use light coconut milk for Nasi Empal: Sweet Fried Beef with Rice?

While light coconut milk can be used, the traditional recipe calls for thick coconut milk (santan kental) for authentic richness and flavor.

How do I store leftover Nasi Empal: Sweet Fried Beef with Rice?

Store leftover Nasi Empal: Sweet Fried Beef with Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. The flavors actually improve overnight as the spices continue to meld.

🥘Recipes Using Similar Ingredients

NE

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
Loading views...