Imagine a salad so stunning it looks like it's been kissed by tropical waters, with rice as blue as a summer sky and flavors that dance across your palate! Nasi Kerabu isn't just a recipe; it's a Malaysian culinary adventure that will transport you to the beautiful coastal regions of Southeast Asia with every single bite. This extraordinary dish combines stunning visual appeal with a refreshing blend of textures and tastes that will make your ordinary meal extraordinary.
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Malaysian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups blue rice (cooked)
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut, toasted
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup bean sprouts
- 1/4 cup mint leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the blue rice by rinsing thoroughly and cooking in a rice cooker or pot. Use a 2:1 water to rice ratio and cook until tender. Allow rice to cool to room temperature.
- Toast the shredded coconut in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring constantly until golden brown and fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
- Wash and finely dice the cucumber into small, uniform cubes. Rinse bean sprouts and pat dry with paper towels.
- Gently wash and chop fresh mint leaves, ensuring they are finely cut to distribute flavor evenly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled blue rice, diced cucumber, bean sprouts, and chopped mint leaves.
- Squeeze fresh lime juice directly over the rice mixture, ensuring even distribution.
- Sprinkle toasted coconut over the salad and gently toss all ingredients together.
- Season with salt to taste, mixing carefully to maintain the rice's delicate texture.
- Cover and refrigerate for 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving.
- Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish or light meal, garnishing with additional mint leaves if desired.
Tips
- Use authentic blue rice (colored naturally with butterfly pea flower) for the most authentic presentation and color.
- Toast coconut slowly and carefully to prevent burning - golden brown is the perfect color.
- Use fresh mint leaves for maximum flavor impact.
- Allow the salad to rest in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to let flavors meld together.
- For extra crunch, ensure cucumber and bean sprouts are very finely diced.
- Use freshly squeezed lime juice for the brightest, most vibrant flavor.
- Serve chilled for the most refreshing experience.
- Can be prepared ahead of time, making it perfect for meal prep or gatherings.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 0mg
