Dinner

Indonesian Fried Rice with Mackerel Recipe

Name: Indonesian Fried Rice with Mackerel Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Indonesian
Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil; 2 eggs, lightly beaten; 1 tbsp red curry paste; pinch caster sugar; 800g cooked basmati rice (about 250g-300g uncooked); small bunch spring onions, sliced; 140g frozen peas; 2 tbsp soy sauce, plus extra to serve; 4 smoked mackerel fillets, flaked; ½ cucumber, cut into half moons

BySophie Carsel November 28, 2025November 28, 2025

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Introduction

Indonesian fried rice with mackerel is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings together spicy red curry, tender smoked fish, and fresh vegetables. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal that feels both comforting and exotic.

The image shows a white bowl with blue patterns filled with fried rice. The fried rice has a light brown color with visible pieces of green peas and green onion slices mixed throughout. On top of the rice, there are several slices of light brown cooked chicken and three slices of green cucumber placed on one side. Two white chopsticks with blue patterns rest on the side of the bowl. The bowl is sitting on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 tbsp olive oil
2 eggs, lightly beaten
1 tbsp red curry paste
Pinch caster sugar
800g cooked basmati rice (about 250g-300g uncooked)
Small bunch spring onions, sliced
140g frozen peas
2 tbsp soy sauce, plus extra to serve
4 smoked mackerel fillets, flaked
½ cucumber, cut into half moons

Instructions

Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan or wok over medium heat. Pour in the beaten eggs and swirl the pan to coat the base evenly. Cook for about 1 minute, then flip and cook the other side until the omelette is set. Remove from the pan and cut into rough ribbons.
Step 2: Add the red curry paste and caster sugar to the pan and fry for 1 minute to release the flavors. Stir in the cooked rice, coating it well with the curry paste.
Step 3: Add the sliced spring onions and frozen peas, then stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes until the ingredients are heated through.
Step 4: Pour in the soy sauce, then gently fold in the omelette ribbons and flaked smoked mackerel.
Step 5: Divide the fried rice between four bowls. Garnish with the cucumber slices and serve with extra soy sauce if desired.

Tips & Variations

Peppered mackerel fillets work beautifully in this dish for a spicier flavor.
If you’re not a fan of fish, try substituting with sliced ready-cooked chicken breasts for a leaner option.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a frying pan or microwave until steaming hot. Avoid reheating more than once for best texture and flavor.

How to Serve

A white bowl with blue patterns contains a layered fried rice dish. The bottom layer is light brown fried rice mixed with small green peas and pieces of chopped green onion. On top of the rice are large slices of light brown cooked chicken and three crescent-shaped slices of fresh green cucumber placed at the edge. A pair of white chopsticks with blue designs rests on the side of the bowl. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of rice for this recipe?

Yes, jasmine rice is a good alternative to basmati and works well with the flavors. Just be sure it’s cooked and cooled before frying to prevent clumping.

Is it necessary to use smoked mackerel, or can I use fresh fish?

Smoked mackerel adds a distinct smoky depth to the dish, but you can use fresh cooked fish if preferred. Poach or grill fresh mackerel fillets and flake them before adding.