Mie Goreng is a classic Indonesian street food dish, combining stir-fried noodles with a variety of savory ingredients such as shrimp, chicken, and eggs. The dish is finished off with a combination of sweet soy sauce and sesame oil, making it a perfect blend of salty, savory, and umami flavors.
The best part about Mie Goreng is its versatility. You can add your favorite protein, like tofu for a vegetarian option, or adjust the heat level by adding more or less chili. This quick and flavorful dish is ideal for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something flavorful, spicy, and satisfying. Perfect as a standalone meal or paired with a side of fresh cucumber and lime for extra zest.
Full Recipe:
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200g (7oz) egg noodles
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2 tablespoons vegetable oil
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2 garlic cloves, minced
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1 small onion, sliced
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1 red chili, sliced (optional for heat)
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1/2 cup cooked chicken, sliced
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1/2 cup cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
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2 eggs, beaten
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2 tablespoons soy sauce
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1 tablespoon oyster sauce
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1 tablespoon sweet soy sauce (kecap manis)
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1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1 spring onion, chopped (for garnish)
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1 cucumber, sliced (for garnish)
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Lime wedges (optional)
Directions:
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Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions, drain, and set aside.
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Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large pan over medium-high heat.
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Add the minced garlic and sliced onion, stir-frying for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and softened.
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Add the red chili, cooked chicken, and shrimp to the pan, cooking for another 2-3 minutes.
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Push everything to the side of the pan, then add the beaten eggs to the empty side. Scramble them until fully cooked.
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Add the cooked noodles to the pan and stir to combine with the other ingredients.
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Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sweet soy sauce, and sesame oil, tossing to coat the noodles evenly.
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Season with salt and pepper to taste, and stir-fry for an additional 2 minutes.
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Remove from heat and serve immediately, garnished with chopped spring onion, cucumber slices, and lime wedges.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 450 kcal | Servings: 2 servings
Mie Goreng: A Flavorful Indonesian Stir-Fried Noodle Dish
Introduction to Mie Goreng
Mie Goreng, often referred to as Indonesian fried noodles, is a popular dish in Indonesia and has earned its place as a beloved street food across many parts of Southeast Asia. The dish is simple yet flavorful, combining stir-fried noodles with a mix of savory, sweet, and spicy ingredients, making it a satisfying meal any time of the day. Whether served for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Mie Goreng is versatile, quick to prepare, and delicious, which explains its widespread appeal.
History and Origins of Mie Goreng
Mie Goreng has a long-standing history in Indonesia and beyond. Its roots can be traced back to Chinese immigrants who introduced the concept of stir-fried noodles to Southeast Asia. The Chinese culinary influence in Indonesia brought with it noodle dishes, such as fried noodles, which were then adapted to local ingredients and cooking styles. The dish eventually evolved into the Indonesian Mie Goreng, a dish that combines the savory umami flavors of soy sauce, the sweetness of kecap manis (sweet soy sauce), and the rich taste of stir-fried proteins like chicken, shrimp, or beef.
While Mie Goreng is a significant part of Indonesian cuisine, it has also become popular in other Southeast Asian countries such as Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand. Variations of the dish exist across these regions, with each adding its unique spin on the traditional recipe.
Regional Variations of Mie Goreng
Mie Goreng has numerous regional variations that highlight the rich diversity of Indonesian cuisine. In Jakarta, the capital of Indonesia, Mie Goreng might be served with additional crispy fried shallots or even a fried egg on top, adding an extra layer of flavor and texture. In Bali, you might find Mie Goreng spiced up with more exotic ingredients like sambal, a traditional chili paste that adds a fiery heat to the dish.
In Malaysia and Singapore, Mie Goreng is often served as a street food dish, commonly known as “Char Kway Teow” in these regions, where flat rice noodles replace egg noodles, and the dish is served with a side of prawns or chicken. The Malay version, often referred to as “Mie Goreng Mamak,” can feature a spicy and tangy flavor profile, incorporating ingredients like tamarind, turmeric, and more bold spices.
Key Ingredients That Make Mie Goreng Special
What makes Mie Goreng unique is its simple yet bold combination of ingredients. The primary ingredient is the egg noodle, which is stir-fried in oil, giving it a satisfying crunch and texture. The dish is then flavored with a blend of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sweet soy sauce, known locally as kecap manis, which imparts a deep sweetness and savory richness. The addition of proteins like chicken, shrimp, or tofu makes it a complete meal, while vegetables such as cabbage, carrots, and spring onions offer freshness and crunch.
The optional addition of eggs, either scrambled into the noodles or served on top, further enhances the dish’s flavor and texture. Finally, garnishes such as fried shallots, cucumber slices, and lime wedges elevate the presentation and add refreshing contrast to the richness of the stir-fry.
Serving Suggestions for Mie Goreng
Mie Goreng is a dish that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of side dishes, making it incredibly versatile. For a well-rounded meal, consider pairing it with a simple vegetable salad or a side of pickled vegetables to balance out the richness of the noodles. The crispy texture of the fried shallots on top adds both flavor and crunch, while a wedge of lime squeezed over the dish just before eating provides a burst of freshness and acidity that cuts through the savory notes.
To make Mie Goreng more substantial, serve it with a side of satay, skewered meats that are grilled and served with peanut sauce. This combination is a popular street food pairing in Indonesia and will surely enhance your dining experience.
Health Benefits of Mie Goreng
While Mie Goreng is a flavorful and indulgent dish, it does offer some nutritional benefits when prepared with fresh, wholesome ingredients. Noodles provide carbohydrates, which are a primary source of energy, while proteins such as chicken, shrimp, or tofu offer essential nutrients for muscle repair and overall body function. Vegetables like cabbage and carrots add fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, contributing to a healthy digestive system and boosting your immune health.
However, it’s important to note that Mie Goreng can be high in sodium due to the soy sauce and other salty ingredients. To make the dish healthier, you can adjust the amount of soy sauce used and incorporate low-sodium options. Additionally, opting for whole wheat noodles or adding more vegetables can increase the dish’s fiber content, making it a more balanced meal.
Why Mie Goreng Is a Global Favorite
Mie Goreng is one of those dishes that effortlessly crosses cultural boundaries. It’s easy to see why this dish is so popular — it’s quick to make, delicious, and highly customizable. The beauty of Mie Goreng lies in its adaptability. Whether you prefer a milder, sweeter version or one that’s packed with heat, Mie Goreng can be adjusted to suit anyone’s taste.
Another reason for its widespread appeal is the fact that it incorporates ingredients commonly found in kitchens worldwide. The use of soy sauce, eggs, noodles, and vegetables makes it accessible to a broad audience. Additionally, it’s affordable and easy to prepare, making it a go-to dish for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Conclusion: Mie Goreng – A Dish Worth Trying
Mie Goreng is more than just a delicious dish; it’s a testament to the cultural fusion that defines Indonesian cuisine. Its perfect balance of flavors, combined with the rich history and cultural significance, make it a must-try for anyone looking to explore the world of Southeast Asian food. Whether you’re enjoying a plate at a bustling street food stall in Indonesia or cooking it at home for a family dinner, Mie Goreng brings joy to the table with every bite.
With endless variations, serving options, and opportunities for customization, Mie Goreng will surely remain a beloved favorite for generations to come. Whether you’re a novice cook or an experienced chef, this dish offers both simplicity and complexity, making it a rewarding meal for all.