Nasi Lemak Rendang

Name: Nasi Lemak Rendang
Cuisine: Singaporean

Hawker • Singapore

720

kcal

26g

Protein

72g

Carbs

36g

Fat

Data source: SingaporeCalorie

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About Nasi Lemak Rendang

Coconut rice with dry beef or chicken rendang

How to Make Nasi Lemak Rendang (Traditional & Healthy Version)

Prep: 15 min

Cook: 20 min

2 servings

Medium

Nasi Lemak Rendang is a beloved Singaporean dish that beautifully marries fragrant coconut rice with tender, spiced rendang chicken—a true celebration of local hawker culture and culinary fusion. Found everywhere from bustling kopitiams to modern food courts, this dish is a staple for many Singaporeans who crave comfort food with a punch of flavor. Singapore’s version of Nasi Lemak Rendang is distinct, often featuring a healthier twist with lighter coconut milk and a rainbow of fresh garnishes, reflecting the city’s global influences while staying rooted in tradition. The taste is aromatic and complex: fluffy coconut-infused rice, slow-cooked rendang chicken bursting with spices, and classic sides like crispy ikan bilis (anchovies), cucumber, and a hard-boiled egg. Health-conscious Singaporeans will appreciate this recipe’s use of lean chicken and minimal oil, making it suitable for lunch without the heaviness. Nasi Lemak Rendang is more than just a meal—it’s a cultural icon that brings together families and friends, echoing the warmth and vibrancy of Singapore’s diverse food scene.

Diabetic-Friendly Weight Loss Kid-Friendly Vegan Adaptable

Allergens: fish, egg

Ingredients(for 1 plate with rice, rendang, and sides (typical kopitiam portion))

1 cup Basmati rice (preferred for lower GI)
3/4 cup Lite coconut milk (santan)
200g Chicken breast (skinless, boneless)
2 tbsp Rendang spice paste (homemade or store-bought)
2 Shallots (finely sliced)
2 cloves Garlic (minced)
1 inch Ginger (minced)
1/2 Cucumber (sliced)
20g Ikan bilis (dried anchovies, lightly toasted)
1 Egg (hard-boiled) - optional
2 tbsp Chili sambal (for serving) - optional
to taste Salt

Instructions

1
Rinse the basmati rice until the water runs clear. Add to a rice cooker with lite coconut milk, a pinch of salt, and enough water to cook as per rice cooker instructions. Let it steam until fluffy.
15 minutes
Use basmati rice for a lower GI and lighter texture.
2
While rice is cooking, toast the ikan bilis (anchovies) in a dry pan over medium heat until crisp. Set aside for garnish.
5 minutes
Do not add oil to keep the dish healthy and crunchy.
3
In a non-stick pan, heat 1 tsp oil. Sauté shallots, garlic, and ginger until fragrant. Add rendang spice paste and cook for 2 minutes.
5 minutes
Stir constantly to prevent burning and bring out the spices’ aroma.
4
Add diced chicken breast to the pan. Stir well to coat with spices. Pour in 1/3 cup water and simmer on low heat for 10 minutes, or until chicken is cooked and sauce thickens.
10 minutes
Use boneless chicken for faster cooking and leaner protein.

Why This Dish is Healthy

By using lighter coconut milk and lean chicken, this dish is significantly lower in fat and calories than traditional versions. The use of basmati rice helps stabilize blood sugar, making it a more suitable option for those watching their carb intake. Toasting the ikan bilis without oil and adding fresh vegetables boosts the nutritional value, making this a balanced and wholesome meal.

This Nasi Lemak Rendang recipe is rich in lean protein from chicken breast and provides complex carbs from basmati rice, which has a lower glycaemic index compared to regular rice. Lite coconut milk reduces saturated fat while still delivering authentic flavor. Fresh vegetables like cucumber add dietary fiber, vitamins A and C, and minerals such as potassium. The inclusion of ikan bilis offers calcium and essential omega-3 fatty acids.