![Date: 20 Jan 2020 (Mon)
8th Breakfast: Nasi Lemak Daun Pisang (Nasi Lemak in Banana Leaf) [189] [138.7%] [Score: 9.8]
Cuisine: Malaysian, Singaporean
Dish Type: Main
Here the nasi lemak is presented in its barest minimum, wrapped with only one piece of banana leaf. All the banana leaves I bought 3 months ago in the freezer have completely disintegrated. The nasi lemak should be wrapped with newspaper lined with banana leaf. I do not have newspaper and to buy one is “expensive”, AUD3.50. Not worth the money. I do not read newspaper and I certainly do not eat it. There was however, one loose piece of banana leaf around. So, as said in this presentation, the nasi lemak was only wrapped with that piece of banana leaf. Happy that the dish scored a 9.8 :).
Simplicity is the hallmark of a genius. The genius hallmark goes to Nyonya Cooking again!](data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAAEAAAABCAQAAAC1HAwCAAAAC0lEQVR42mNkYAAAAAYAAjCB0C8AAAAASUVORK5CYII=)
This recipe will guide you to wrap ‘nasi lemak’ in banana leaf exactly like how it is done locally. Packets of these wrapped nasi lemak without the frills, just the basic accompaniments like 'sambal', fried anchovies, cucumber, peanuts and a slice of hard-boiled/fried egg are sold economically at most of the Muslims and 'Mamak' restaurants However, you may certainly add more accompaniments like fried chicken, chicken rendang or squids. Wrapping it in banana leaf enhances the aroma of the rice.
Where to buy banana leaves?
Fresh or frozen banana leaves can be bought at Asian grocers.
Size of banana leaf and newspaper
Usually, tabloid sized newspapers around 11 x 17 inches are used. The banana leaf should be longer width-wise and slightly shorter length-wise which is about 15 x 13 inches.
Can I not use newspaper?
Yes, of course. However, the banana leaf does not hold the shape well enough to keep the wrapped nasi lemak intact. You may replace newspaper with baking sheet or waxed paper.
Enjoy it together with a cup of 'teh tarik' or your favourite beverage.
