For the coconut rice:

1. In a rice cooker, combine the washed jasmine rice, coconut milk, water, lemongrass, salt, and pandan leaves (if using). Give it a stir and cook according to your rice cooker's instructions. If using a pot, bring the liquids and spices to a boil, then add the rice. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

For an easy chicken rendang:

1. Heat a pot over medium heat and add some cooking oil to sauté the onions for 3-4 minutes, until softened and translucent. Add the garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
2. Add the chicken pieces and brown them on all sides, then stir in the red curry paste and cook for a further minute, allowing the spices to temper and release.
3. Pour in the coconut milk and add the brown sugar. Bring the pot to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cover with a lid. Let the chicken simmer and cook for 30-45 minutes, or until tender and cooked through. Add water or stock as needed to maintain a sauce-like consistency.

To serve your fragrant nasi lemak with the flavourful chicken rendang, a side of fresh cucumber slices, sambal chili paste (if you have any), and roasted peanuts. It's a heavenly combo and one that you'll definitely be dreaming of after your first bite.

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FAQs

1. What is Nasi Lemak?
Nasi Lemak is a traditional Malaysian dish consisting of fragrant rice cooked in coconut milk, served with a variety of accompaniments such as spicy sambal, fried anchovies, roasted peanuts, hard-boiled or fried eggs, and cucumber slices. It’s often considered Malaysia's national dish.

2. What does 'Nasi Lemak' mean?
The term "Nasi Lemak" translates to "rich rice" in Malay, referring to the creamy, rich flavour of the rice cooked in coconut milk.

3. How do you prepare the rice for Nasi Lemak?
The rice is typically washed and soaked before being cooked in coconut milk with pandan leaves and a pinch of salt, which gives it a unique aroma and creamy texture.

4. Can Nasi Lemak be served for breakfast?
Yes! Nasi Lemak is often eaten as a breakfast dish in Malaysia, but it can be enjoyed at any time of the day.

5. What are the typical accompaniments served with Nasi Lemak?
Accompaniments can vary but commonly include sambal (spicy chili paste), fried crispy anchovies, roasted peanuts, sliced cucumber, and hard-boiled or fried eggs. Some variations also include fried chicken, rendang, or other proteins.

6. Is Nasi Lemak vegetarian-friendly?
While the traditional version includes animal products, you can easily make a vegetarian version by using plant-based proteins and skipping the anchovies and eggs. Many people enjoy it with additional vegetables or tofu.

7. Can I make Nasi Lemak in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the components of Nasi Lemak ahead of time. Cooked rice can be stored in the refrigerator, and sambal can be made in advance as well. Just reheat before serving.

8. How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To maintain the best texture, it’s recommended to separate the sambal and other accompaniments from the rice.

9. Can I freeze Nasi Lemak?
While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the rice and sambal separately. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving. However, the texture may change slightly upon freezing and reheating.

10. What beverages pair well with Nasi Lemak?
Nasi Lemak is often enjoyed with teh tarik (pulled tea), kopi (coffee), or even a refreshing iced drink like bandung (rose syrup with milk).

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