Nasi kucing

Nasi kucing ([ˈnasi ˈkutʃɪŋ]; also known as sego kucing and often translated cat rice or cat's rice) is an Indonesian rice dish that originated from Yogyakarta, Semarang, and Surakarta but has since spread. It consists of a small portion of rice with toppings, usually sambal, dried fish, and tempeh, wrapped in banana leaves.

Etymology

The term nasi kucing, literally meaning "cat rice" or "cat's rice", is derived from the portion size. The portion of rice served is similar in size to what the Javanese would serve to a pet cat, hence the name.

Origin

Nasi kucing originated in Yogyakarta, Semarang, and Surakarta. However, it has since spread to Jakarta and even as far as Mecca, sold by Indonesian workers during the hajj.

Presentation

Nasi kucing consists of a small, fist-sized portion of rice along with toppings. Common toppings include sambal, dried fish, and tempeh. Other ingredients can include egg, chicken, and cucumber. It is served ready-made, wrapped in a banana leaf, which is further wrapped in paper.