How to Make Brown Rice (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Brown rice, locally known as 'beras perang', is an increasingly popular staple in the Malaysian kitchen. It draws from Malaysia’s rich multicultural cuisine, offering a healthier alternative to white rice while still serving as the perfect base for local dishes like nasi lemak, rendang, or simple vegetable stir-fries. Brown rice lends a subtle nutty aroma and chewy texture, pairing beautifully with local flavors such as pandan leaves and lemongrass. In Malaysia, embracing brown rice is a natural progression towards balanced meals. Its whole grain profile delivers more nutrients and fiber, making it a favorite among health-conscious Malaysians. This simple yet authentic recipe infuses the rice with the fragrance of pandan, a beloved local herb, and a touch of minyak bijan (sesame oil) for added depth. Whether you're preparing lunch at home or meal-prepping for the week, this healthy brown rice recipe is a wholesome foundation for any Malaysian meal.
Ingredients
- 1 cup Brown rice (beras perang) (uncooked, rinsed well)
- 2 cups Water (filtered)
- 1 leaf Pandan leaf (knotted)
- 1 stalk Lemongrass (bruised)
- 1 teaspoon Minyak bijan (sesame oil)
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt
- 1/4 small Onion (finely chopped)
- 1 clove Garlic (minced)
- 1 stalk Spring onion (sliced, for garnish)
- Pinch Black pepper (freshly ground, optional)
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Rinse the brown rice under running water until the water runs clear
Rinse the brown rice under running water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
Step 2 · In a medium pot or rice cooker
In a medium pot or rice cooker, combine the rinsed brown rice, water, pandan leaf, and bruise the lemongrass stalk before adding it.
Step 3 · Add salt and drizzle in minyak bijan (sesame oil) for extra depth
Add salt and drizzle in minyak bijan (sesame oil) for extra depth. If using, add chopped onion and garlic at this stage.
Step 4 · Bring to a boil over medium heat
Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to low. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes, or until rice is tender and water is absorbed.
Step 5 · Remove from heat
Remove from heat. Let the rice rest, covered, for 5 minutes to finish steaming.
Step 6 · Fluff the rice gently with a fork
Fluff the rice gently with a fork, remove pandan and lemongrass. Garnish with sliced spring onion and a pinch of black pepper if desired.
Why this recipe is healthy
Choosing brown rice over white rice increases your intake of whole grains, which are linked to better heart health, lower risk of diabetes, and improved weight management. This Malaysian brown rice recipe uses minimal oil and no santan, making it lower in saturated fat and calories, while boosting flavor with local herbs instead of heavy seasonings.
A note on tradition
Brown rice is gaining popularity in Malaysia, especially among urban communities seeking healthier options. Traditionally, Malaysians consume white rice, but brown rice is now common in health-focused households and restaurants. It reflects Malaysia’s openness to nutritional trends without losing local flavor, and it’s often enjoyed during family lunches or as part of balanced vegetarian meals.