Mie Rebus (Boiled Noodles)

Soft boiled egg noodles served in thick spicy gravy often garnished by fried shallots.

 

Exploring Mie Rebus: A Flavorful Comfort Food

Mie Rebus, meaning "boiled noodles," is a cherished dish in Indonesian cuisine, especially popular in Java. This delightful meal features soft, boiled egg noodles immersed in a rich, spicy gravy. Often adorned with toppings like fried shallots and hard-boiled eggs, Mie Rebus reflects the vibrant street food culture of Indonesia, where vendors serve this hearty dish to satisfy hungry patrons. 

 

With its comforting flavors and diverse textures, Mie Rebus is perfect for cozy dinners or fulfilling lunches. This recipe serves 4 and is sure to warm your heart.

 

Nutritional Benefits of Mie Rebus

Rich in Nutrients: Packed with protein from eggs and other toppings, along with vitamins from vegetables, Mie Rebus is both nutritious and delicious.

Balanced Meal: The combination of carbohydrates from noodles, protein from eggs or meat, and healthy fats from the gravy makes it a well-rounded dish.

Customizable: Easily adjust ingredients to cater to dietary needs, making it suitable for vegetarians or those looking to cut down on meat.

Quick Cooking: With a relatively short preparation and cooking time, you can enjoy this delightful meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

 

Ingredients for Mie Rebus

For the Noodles:

• 300g egg noodles (or any preferred noodle)
• 4 cups water (for boiling noodles)

For the Gravy:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 red chilies, sliced (adjust for spice preference)
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons sweet soy sauce (kecap manis)
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Toppings:

• 3 hard-boiled eggs, halved
• Fried shallots for garnish
• Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish
• Lime wedges for serving
  

 

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Noodles

1. Boil the Noodles:
   • In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions (usually about 3-5 minutes). Once cooked, drain and set aside.

Making the Gravy

2. Sauté Aromatics:

   • In a large skillet or saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped onion, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 2 minutes.

3. Add Chilies and Spices:

   • Stir in the sliced red chilies and turmeric powder, cooking for another minute to enhance the flavors.

4. Add Broth and Sauces:

   • Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth along with soy sauce and sweet soy sauce (kecap manis). Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

5. Season the Gravy:

   • Taste the gravy and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed for a balanced flavor.

Assembling Mie Rebus

6. Prepare Serving Bowls:

   • In each serving bowl, place a generous portion of cooked noodles at the bottom.

7. Ladle Gravy Over Noodles:

   • Carefully ladle the hot gravy over the noodles in each bowl.

8. Add Toppings:

   • Top each bowl with halved hard-boiled eggs and garnish with fried shallots and fresh cilantro or green onions.

9. Serve with Lime Wedges:

   • Provide lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the dish, adding a zesty brightness to the flavors.
    

Tips for Perfect Mie Rebus

Adjust Spice Levels: Modify the amount of chili based on your heat tolerance to create a dish that suits your palate.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance the overall flavor; avoid using wilted produce for the best results.

Customize Toppings: Feel free to add other toppings like bean sprouts, tofu, or even crispy fried tempeh based on your preferences.

Taste as You Go: Regularly taste the gravy and adjust seasonings throughout the cooking process to ensure a perfectly balanced dish.

 

Conclusion

Mie Rebus is not just a meal; it’s a comforting embrace of Indonesian flavors that brings warmth to any table. This dish's adaptability and rich taste make it perfect for any occasion, whether a cozy family dinner or a flavorful lunch. Embrace the delightful experience of making Mie Rebus, and savor the comforting blend of textures and flavors in every bite. Enjoy this beloved Indonesian classic and share it with friends and family for a truly satisfying culinary experience!

 

Discover more about Indonesia dishes