How to Make Tomato Rice with Fried Chicken (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Tomato Rice with Fried Chicken, or Nasi Tomato dengan Ayam Goreng, is a cherished Malaysian lunch dish that beautifully blends the country's multicultural culinary heritage. The rice is cooked with ripe tomatoes, fragrant spices, and fresh herbs like pandan leaves and lemongrass, giving it a vibrant color and aromatic flavor that Malaysians love. Paired with crispy, golden fried chicken, this dish is both comforting and festive, often found at family gatherings, weddings, and celebratory occasions. In Malaysia, rice-based dishes are the heart of every meal, and Tomato Rice stands out for its unique tangy, subtly sweet taste and inviting aroma. By using authentic ingredients like bunga lawang (star anise) and kulit kayu manis (cinnamon stick), this healthy version maintains all the traditional flavors with a lighter twist. Opting for lean chicken breast and oven-frying reduces calories without compromising taste, making this recipe ideal for those watching their intake but eager to savor true Malaysian cuisine.
Bahan
Arahan langkah demi langkah
Langkah 1 · Rinse the rice thoroughly until the water runs clear
Rinse the rice thoroughly until the water runs clear. Soak for 10 minutes, then drain.
Langkah 2 · Blend the tomatoes until smooth
Blend the tomatoes until smooth. Sauté onions, garlic, star anise, cinnamon, lemongrass, and pandan in a non-stick pot until fragrant.
Langkah 3 · Add blended tomatoes
Add blended tomatoes, yogurt, and soaked rice to the pot. Stir well and season with salt. Add 1 1/4 cups water. Cook on low heat until rice is done and fluffy.
Langkah 4 · Marinate chicken with turmeric
Marinate chicken with turmeric, black pepper, salt, and optional coriander powder. Leave for at least 10 minutes.
Langkah 5 · Preheat oven to 200°C
Preheat oven to 200°C. Place chicken on a lined tray, brush lightly with olive oil, and bake for 15 minutes or until golden and cooked through.
Langkah 6 · Fluff the tomato rice gently
Fluff the tomato rice gently. Serve warm with baked chicken on the side. Garnish with fresh cucumber or coriander if desired.
Mengapa resipi ini sihat
By opting for oven-baked chicken and substituting full-fat santan with low-fat yogurt, this recipe reduces overall fat and calorie content without sacrificing flavor. The use of fresh ingredients and aromatic local spices ensures a nutrient-dense, balanced meal. This health-conscious approach makes it suitable for calorie-conscious eaters and those seeking wholesome Malaysian flavors.
Nota tentang tradisi
Tomato Rice with Fried Chicken is a beloved dish in many Malaysian households, especially among the Malay community in the northern region such as Kedah and Penang. It is often served during kenduri (communal feasts), weddings, and festive gatherings, reflecting Malaysia's rich multicultural tradition. The dish showcases the local love for aromatic rice and the use of fresh, local herbs and spices, making it a festive yet everyday favorite.