 Nasi minyak (oily rice) served in Palembang, Southern Sumatra, Indonesia. | |
| Course | Main course |
|---|---|
| Place of origin | Indonesia |
| Region or state | South Sumatra |
| Serving temperature | Warm |
| Main ingredients | Rice cooked in ghee and spices |
Nasi minyak (Palembang Malay for "oily rice") is an Indonesian dish from Palembang cuisine of cooked rice with minyak samin (ghee) and spices. This rice dish is commonly associated with Palembang city, the capital of South Sumatra province.[1] However, it is also common in neighboring Jambi[2] as far north to Medan in North Sumatra.[3] Nasi minyak looks and tastes similar to nasi kebuli, this is because both rice dishes are influenced by Indian and Middle Eastern cuisines, as evidence in the use of ghee and certain spices. Bumbu spice mixture being used including cardamom, anise, clove, caraway, cinnamon, onion, garlic and curry powder.[4]
In Palembang, nasi minyak is a celebrative traditional dish usually served for special events and celebrations. Certain mosque in Palembang served free nasi minyak after Jumu'ah Friday mass prayer, every last Friday of the month.[5]
While in Southern Thailand, Peninsular Malaysia and Singapore, the Nasi Minyak is regarded ceremonial dish and usually being eaten during the traditional Malay wedding reception.[6] It also can be found in Pasar Malam. While in the east coast of Malaysia (Kelantan, Terengganu and coastal Pahang) and southern Thailand (Pattani, Yala and Narathiwat), Nasi Minyak is a common breakfast meal.
