“Madiun’s Veggie-Packed Pecel Rice: A Traditional Dish with a Healthy Twist”

Madiun’s Veggie-Packed Pecel Rice: A Traditional Dish with a Healthy Twist

Indonesia is home to countless regional culinary treasures, and Nasi Pecel Madiun is one of the most cherished. Originating from Madiun, East Java, this dish is a celebration of vegetables, peanut sauce, and rich tradition. What makes it truly unique is the generous portion of blanched greens topped with a signature Madiun-style peanut sauce — all beautifully laid out on a banana leaf for extra aroma and authenticity.

🍽️ Ingredients You’ll Need

For the main dish:

4 portions of steamed white rice

100 g bean sprouts, trimmed

100 g spinach, washed and trimmed

200 g water spinach (kangkung), trimmed

200 g long beans, cut into 2 cm pieces

100 g short bean sprouts, blanched and drained

2 cucumbers, diced

70 g basil leaves (daun kemangi)

4 kaffir limes, halved

2 liters water (for boiling vegetables)

For the peanut sauce:

250 ml hot water

250 g ready-to-eat Sambal Pecel Madiun

1 tbsp sweet soy sauce (kecap manis)

Optional side dishes (recommended):

Fried tempeh

Fried tofu

Peanut crackers (rempeyek)

Rice crackers (kerupuk gendar)

Extra sweet soy sauce for drizzling

👩‍🍳 How to Make It

1. Prepare the peanut sauce:

In a bowl, combine the ready-to-eat sambal pecel with hot water and mix until smooth. Stir in the sweet soy sauce. Set aside.

2. Blanch the vegetables:

Boil 2 liters of water. Blanch the vegetables separately — starting with bean sprouts, followed by spinach, water spinach, and long beans. Drain and set aside.

3. Assemble the dish:

Place steamed rice on a serving plate or banana leaf for a traditional touch. Top with assorted vegetables, pour over the peanut sauce, and squeeze a bit of kaffir lime juice on top to enhance the aroma and flavor.

4. Serve with side dishes:

Complete your meal with fried tempeh, tofu, crackers, or rempeyek for added crunch and texture.

🌱 Healthy Version Tips: Enjoy Pecel Guilt-Free

If you're aiming for a healthier plate without compromising taste, here are some smart substitutions and tips:

1. Swap the rice:

Replace white rice with brown rice for more fiber, or use cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

2. Reduce sugar and salt:

Use less palm sugar or substitute with natural sweeteners like honey. Choose low-sodium or unsalted peanuts in the sauce to reduce sodium intake.

3. Add more veggie variety:

Introduce carrots, broccoli, zucchini, or any seasonal vegetables to boost your nutrient intake.

4. Mind the sides:

Avoid fried crackers or chips. Instead, try toasted sesame seeds or roasted nuts for a crunchy texture.

5. Choose lean proteins:

Add boiled or grilled skinless chicken breast, tofu, or tempeh for a satisfying and balanced source of protein.

💡 Final Thought

Whether you're indulging in the classic version or opting for a healthier twist, Nasi Pecel Madiun remains a delicious tribute to Indonesia’s culinary diversity. Its balance of textures, bold flavors, and nutritional versatility makes it a perfect meal for any time of day — from breakfast to dinner.

So next time you crave something hearty and wholesome, let Madiun’s veggie-rich pecel rice satisfy your taste buds and nourish your body.