Who doesn’t know about fried rice? It’s safe to say that almost everyone is familiar with and even loves fried rice. Fried rice is a dish made by stir-frying cooked rice with various spices and additional ingredients like eggs, salted fish, meat, vegetables, and more.
Fried rice is one of Indonesia’s signature dishes, renowned for its deliciousness worldwide. While it’s known as an Indonesian specialty, fried rice actually originated elsewhere.
So, where did fried rice come from? check this out.
Origins of Fried Rice
Fried rice originates from China and has undergone numerous modifications in Indonesia. It has been around since ancient times, even dating back to 4000 BC as a traditional food of Chinese society.
In ancient China, people didn’t like eating cold rice, so they would re-cook it by stir-frying it with various spices and herbs. It turned out to be very tasty.
Since then, fried rice became a beloved dish. Besides its delicious taste, fried rice was popular because it helped reduce rice waste, as it was made from cold or leftover rice.
Spread of Fried Rice
Chinese immigrants who traveled to different parts of the world introduced fried rice to new regions. Chinese communities in various countries adapted fried rice to the spices and ingredients available in their new locations.
This resulted in a variety of unique fried rice flavors that catered to the local tastes, including those in Indonesia. In Indonesia, there are many types of fried rice, with almost every region having its own special version.
Who Invented Fried Rice?
The exact origins of fried rice are unknown, but it is thought to have been first developed as a way to use up leftover rice. In China, fried rice is often served as a breakfast or lunch dish. It is also a popular street food and can be found at many restaurants.
Is Fried Rice a Traditional Food?
Simply yes,, fried rice, known as Nasi Goreng in Indonesia, is considered a traditional food in Indonesian cuisine. It is a staple dish that is widely enjoyed across the country and has gained international recognition for its unique flavors and versatility. Nasi Goreng is typically made with leftover rice, which is stir-fried with a variety of ingredients such as vegetables, meat, and sweet soy sauce (kecap manis).
Now you know that the origin of fried rice traces back to Chinese migration to various places, including Indonesia. Hence, it’s not surprising that there are many variations of fried rice in different regions.
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