White Rice with Prawn Sambal
Makan Tengah Hari • Malaysia
How to Make White Rice with Prawn Sambal (Traditional & Healthy Version)
White Rice with Prawn Sambal is a beloved Malaysian lunch dish that brings together the simple comfort of fluffy nasi putih (white rice) with the bold, spicy flavors of sambal udang (prawn sambal). Deeply rooted in Malaysia's multicultural cuisine, this meal reflects the harmony of Malay, Chinese, and Indian influences, often enjoyed in households or bustling warungs across the country. The prawn sambal uses local staples like cili merah (red chili), bawang besar (onion), and a hint of belacan (fermented shrimp paste) for that unmistakable umami punch, balanced with fresh lime juice and the subtle sweetness of tomatoes. This dish is an excellent choice for those seeking authentic Malaysian flavors without excessive calories. By using minimal oil and fresh, local ingredients such as lemongrass and pandan leaves, this recipe highlights the health-conscious side of Malaysian cooking. The combination of lean protein from prawns and the wholesome energy from rice makes it a satisfying yet mindful option for lunch. Enjoying White Rice with Prawn Sambal connects you to the vibrant food culture of Malaysia, where meals are not just nourishment but celebrations of heritage and community.
Bahan-bahan(untuk 1 rice bowl with sambal prawns (approx. 1 cup rice + 6-8 prawns))
- 1 cup White rice (nasi putih)
- 200 g Large prawns (udang, peeled & deveined)
- 4 Red chili (cili merah, seeds removed for less heat)
- 4 Shallots (bawang kecil)
- 2 cloves Garlic (bawang putih)
- 1 small Tomato (chopped)
- 1/2 tsp Belacan (shrimp paste, optional for more umami) - pilihan
- 1 stalk Lemongrass (serai, white part only, sliced)
- 2 Kaffir lime leaves (daun limau purut)
- 1 tbsp Cooking oil (preferably canola or sunflower)
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Sugar (gula)
- 1/2 Lime (for juice)
- 1 Pandan leaf (daun pandan, optional for rice aroma) - pilihan
Arahan
- 1
Rinse white rice thoroughly and cook with 1 1/2 cups of water. Add pandan leaf for fragrance if desired.
15 minutes
Do not overcook rice; keep it fluffy for best texture.
- 2
Blend red chili, shallots, garlic, tomato, and lemongrass into a smooth paste.
5 minutes
Add a splash of water if the paste is too thick.
- 3
Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté the blended paste with belacan (if using) until aromatic and oil separates.
5 minutes
Stir constantly to avoid burning the sambal base.
- 4
Add prawns and kaffir lime leaves. Stir-fry until prawns turn pink and are just cooked (about 2-3 minutes).
3 minutes
Do not overcook prawns to keep them juicy.
Kenapa hidangan ini sihat
White Rice with Prawn Sambal is a healthy lunch option thanks to its lean protein and use of fresh, local ingredients without added cream or excessive oil. The sambal is made from natural aromatics and spices instead of pre-made sauces, ensuring lower sodium and preservative content. Portion control and balanced macros make it suitable for calorie-conscious eaters.
This dish offers a balanced macronutrient profile with lean protein from prawns, complex carbohydrates from white rice, and minimal healthy fats from cooking oil. Prawns are rich in vitamin B12, selenium, and omega-3 fatty acids, while the sambal provides antioxidants from chili, tomatoes, and lime. Using fresh herbs like lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves adds micronutrients and digestive benefits.
Petua
- 💡Use fresh prawns for best flavor and texture.
- 💡To intensify aroma, lightly toast belacan before blending.
- 💡For extra fragrance, cook rice with a pandan leaf and a pinch of salt.
Penyimpanan & hidangan
Store prawn sambal separately from rice in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat sambal gently to avoid overcooking prawns. Rice is best eaten fresh, but can be reheated with a sprinkle of water.
Paling sesuai dihidang: Breakfast or Lunch
Fakta Nutrisi
| Nutrien | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Tenaga | 430.0 kcal |
