Timorese Chicken and Rice Pilaf
Nasu Lata
Nasu Lata is a fragrant and flavorful one-pot chicken and rice dish, a staple in Timorese households. It combines tender chicken pieces with aromatic rice, infused with local spices and herbs, creating a comforting and satisfying meal. This dish highlights the importance of rice as a staple in Timor-Leste, often prepared for family gatherings and everyday meals.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
- 2 cups Jasmine rice
- 400 ml Coconut milk
- 2 cups Water or chicken broth
- 2 medium Onions, thinly sliced
- 5 Garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp Ginger, grated
- 1 tsp Turmeric powder
- 2 stalks Lemongrass, bruised
- 3 Kaffir lime leaves
- 2 Bay leaves
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 2 tbsp Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
💡 Tip: Rinsing the rice removes excess starch, preventing it from becoming gummy. - 2
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken pieces until golden brown on all sides. Remove chicken from the pot and set aside.
💡 Tip: Searing the chicken adds depth of flavor and color to the dish. - 3
Add the sliced onions to the same pot and sauté until softened and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
💡 Tip: Don't overcrowd the pot when sautéing onions to ensure they brown properly. - 4
Stir in the turmeric powder, bruised lemongrass stalks, kaffir lime leaves, and bay leaves. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
💡 Tip: To bruise lemongrass, hit it with the back of a knife or a rolling pin to release its aromatic oils. - 5
Return the seared chicken to the pot. Add the rinsed rice, coconut milk, and water (or chicken broth). Season with salt and black pepper.
💡 Tip: Ensure the liquid level is about an inch above the rice and chicken. - 6
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover tightly, and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
💡 Tip: Avoid lifting the lid while the rice is cooking to maintain steam. - 7
Once cooked, let the pilaf rest, covered, for 10 minutes off the heat. Remove the lemongrass stalks, kaffir lime leaves, and bay leaves before serving.
💡 Tip: Resting allows the rice to finish steaming and become fluffy. - 8
Fluff the rice with a fork, then serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
💡 Tip: This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or pickled vegetables.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of ground coriander or cumin along with the turmeric.
- ✓If you don't have bone-in chicken, boneless thighs can be used, but adjust cooking time accordingly.
- ✓Ensure your pot has a tight-fitting lid to trap steam effectively.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add some sliced chili peppers for a touch of heat.
- Incorporate other vegetables like diced carrots or peas during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- For a richer flavor, use all coconut milk and no water/broth.