How to Make Nasi Kebuli – Spiced Indonesian-Arabian Rice

Nasi Kebuli or Kebuli Rice is a rich and aromatic rice dish influenced by Middle Eastern and Indian cuisine, commonly enjoyed by Indonesian Muslims, especially during special occasions or religious celebrations. The dish combines fragrant basmati rice with spiced meat, coconut milk, and ghee or butter, creating a flavorful and satisfying meal.

Nasi Kebuli / Kebul Rice

Ingredients:

2 cups basmati rice, washed and soaked for 30 minutes

500 grams of beef or mutton, cut into chunks

1 onion, thinly sliced

4 cloves of garlic, minced

1 thumb-sized ginger, minced

2 tbsp ghee or butter (you can use cooking oil if unavailable)

200 ml coconut milk

500 ml beef broth

1 cinnamon stick

3 cloves

3 cardamom pods

2 star anise

1 tsp cumin powder

1 tsp coriander powder

1/2 tsp black pepper

1/2 tsp turmeric powder

Salt to taste

Fried shallots and raisins (optional) for garnish

Instructions:

Cook the MeatHeat ghee or butter in a large pot. Sauté the onion until soft and fragrant. Add garlic and ginger, stir until golden. Add the meat and stir-fry until it changes color.

Add the SpicesPut in all the whole and ground spices (cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, star anise, cumin, coriander, black pepper, turmeric). Stir well so the meat absorbs the flavor.

Simmer with Coconut MilkPour in the coconut milk and simmer the meat over medium heat for about 30–40 minutes until tender. Add salt to taste.

Cook the RiceAdd the soaked and drained rice into the pot. Pour in the beef broth. Mix gently and cook over low heat with the lid on. Stir occasionally to avoid burning at the bottom.

Finish CookingLet it cook until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is soft and fluffy. You may transfer to a rice cooker to finish if needed.

ServeServe hot, garnished with fried shallots and raisins if desired. Nasi Kebuli is often accompanied by pickles, sambal, or a simple cucumber-tomato salad.

This recipe version is a simple homemade style, suitable for daily cooking without special equipment. You can adjust the level of spice and the meat according to your preference. Enjoy your delicious Kebuli!