By eatmundo · August 4, 2026
🇲🇾AI-generated imageSame ingredients, elsewhere in the world
1 matchThis dish doesn't have a strong Mundo Match yet — but here's the closest ingredient overlap we found across the world's cuisines. The percentage is the share of ingredients the two recipes have in common.
Same technique: Rice dish45 recipes from 16 countries
A vibrant blue-tinted rice salad hailing from the East Coast, served with an array of fresh herbs and toasted coconut. It is a feast for the eyes and the palate, balancing earthy, sweet, and tangy notes.
According to eatmundo's ingredient comparison, the closest dish to Nasi Kerabu from another cuisine is Sticky Rice with Mung Bean and Pork Floss (Vietnam): the two share 31% of their ingredients.
Ingredients
tick what you already have - the rest goes on your shopping listHow to Make It
- 1
Steep 4g of dried butterfly pea flowers in 550ml of hot water for 10 minutes until the water turns a deep indigo blue, then strain out the flowers.
- 2
Wash 600g of rice thoroughly under cold running water until it runs clear, then drain well.
- 3
Place the rice in a rice cooker and add the 550ml of blue water, 200ml of coconut milk, the bruised lemongrass, the knotted pandan leaves and 1 tsp of salt.
- 4
Cook the rice on the 'standard' cycle until fluffy and fragrant, ensuring the blue color is evenly distributed.
- 5
Finely slice 5 shallots and prepare a 50g mix of local fresh herbs like daun kesum and torch ginger flower.
- 6
Let the rice cool slightly before fluffing it with a fork to ensure each grain is separate and light.
- 7
Arrange the blue rice on a platter, surrounded by the prepared herbs and shallots, 60g of fresh shredded coconut, and your choice of protein.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Nasi Kerabu?
Nasi Kerabu is a Malaysian rice dish characterized by its distinct blue color derived from butterfly pea flowers. It features rice infused with coconut milk, lemongrass, and pandan, typically served as a lunch meal accompanied by various side dishes.
Can I use food coloring?
While you can, butterfly pea flower provides a distinct, authentic herbal aroma that coloring lacks.
Is the rice supposed to be wet?
No, it should be fluffy like standard steamed rice. The 550ml of blue water plus 200ml of coconut milk (750ml in total) suits 600g of raw rice and gives tender, separate grains.
What is the key ingredient?
The butterfly pea flower is essential for the iconic blue hue and gentle floral note.
How do I store leftovers?
Store the rice separately from the fresh herbs to prevent the salad from wilting or becoming soggy.
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