Lontong

Lontong is a traditional Indonesian dish made of compressed rice cake served with a flavorful coconut curry.

Ingredients - Serves 4

Soak the rice in water for 2 hours, then drain.
Wrap the rice in banana leaves and tie securely to form a compact cylinder.
Boil a large pot of water and add the rice cylinders. Cook for 1 hour, or until the rice is fully cooked and firm.
In a separate pot, heat the coconut milk over medium heat. Add the shrimp paste, galangal, lemongrass, and kaffir lime leaves. Simmer for 10 minutes to infuse the flavors.
Add the sliced chicken, green beans, and cabbage to the coconut milk mixture. Cook until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
Season with salt and sugar to taste.
Remove the rice cylinders from the boiling water and let them cool slightly. Unwrap the banana leaves and slice the rice into thick rounds.
Serve the lontong with the coconut curry and garnish with fried shallots.
Serve with chili sauce on the side for extra heat, if desired.