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

Nasi Liwet: Sundanese Coconut Rice Feast

★★★★☆4.5
|Editor's rating

Fragrant rice cooked in coconut milk with aromatic spices — the centerpiece of Sundanese communal feasting that brings families together around a banana leaf-lined table.

🗺️ 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

  • 3 cups rice, washed
  • 400 ml coconut milk
  • 500 ml water
  • 3 lemongrass stalks, bruised
  • 5 kaffir lime leaves
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 3 cm galangal, bruised
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp cooking oil
  • Side dishes: fried chicken, tofu, tempeh, hard-boiled eggs, sambal, fresh vegetable platter (raw vegetables)

👨‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Heat oil in a rice cooker or heavy pot. Sauté lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, bay leaves, and galangal until fragrant.
  2. Add washed rice and stir to coat with the aromatic oil.
  3. Pour in coconut milk and water. Add salt. Stir well.
  4. Cook as you would regular rice — either in a rice cooker or on the stovetop with lid on low heat.
  5. Once cooked, fluff gently with a fork to distribute the aromatics.
  6. Serve on a large banana leaf-lined table surrounded by side dishes for communal eating.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Nasi Liwet: Sundanese Coconut Rice Feast?

Fragrant rice cooked in coconut milk with aromatic spices — the centerpiece of Sundanese communal feasting that brings families together around a banana leaf-lined table.

Where does Nasi Liwet: Sundanese Coconut Rice Feast come from?

Nasi Liwet: Sundanese Coconut Rice Feast originates from Indonesia. It is a beloved traditional dish that has been passed down through generations of Indonesian cooks.

What makes Nasi Liwet: Sundanese Coconut Rice Feast different from other Indonesian meat dishes?

The key distinction lies in the spice blend and cooking method. Nasi Liwet: Sundanese Coconut Rice Feast uses a rich ground spice paste that sets it apart. The careful preparation preserves the fresh flavors of the ingredients.

Is Nasi Liwet: Sundanese Coconut Rice Feast difficult to make?

Nasi Liwet: Sundanese Coconut Rice Feast requires moderate cooking skills. While the steps are clear, some techniques need practice.

Can I use light coconut milk for Nasi Liwet: Sundanese Coconut Rice Feast?

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 Liwet: Sundanese Coconut Rice Feast?

Store leftover Nasi Liwet: Sundanese Coconut Rice Feast 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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