Authentic Nasi Lemak Rice

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1. 1Step 1: Tie the pandan leaves into a knot.
2. 2Step 2: Remove the tough outer layer and cut off the root bottom of the lemongrass. Lightly smash the lemongrass with the back of the knife or a pestle until fibres split to release its fragrance.
3. 3Step 3: Peel ginger, and slice into thin pieces.
4. 4Step 4: Rinse the rice a few times until the water runs clear, then drain well. It’s ok to wash the rice in the rice cooker pot itself; drain as much as possible.
5. 5Step 5: To the rice cooker pot, add the coconut milk or cream first. Fill up the remaining amount with water. Add salt. Stir to combine well.
6. 6Step 6: Nestle in knotted pandan leaves, lemongrass and ginger slices into random but even spots throughout the rice. Gently push the aromatics to submerge in the rice.
7. 7Step 7: Cook using the regular rice setting.
8. 8Step 8: Once done, let it sit for 10 minutes.
9. 9Step 9: There may be a layer of coconut milk collecting on top of the rice, this is normal. Remove the larger chunks of aromatics. It’s ok to leave 2-3 pieces in the rice. Then fluff and gently mix with a rice paddle or fork. The coconut milk should melt and disappear into the rice.
10. 10Step 10: Rinse the rice a few times until the water runs clear, then drain well.
11. 11Step 11: In a heavy bottomed pot, add the rice, water, coconut milk, pandan leaves, lemongrass, ginger, and salt. Stir to combine.
12. 12Step 12: Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to low. Cover and let it simmer for 12-15 minutes until the liquid is absorbed.
13. 13Step 13: Turn off the heat and let the rice steam for 10 minutes with the lid on.
14. 14Step 14: There may be a layer of coconut milk collecting on top of the rice, this is normal. Remove the larger chunks of aromatics. It’s ok to leave 2-3 pieces in the rice. Then fluff and gently mix with a rice paddle or fork. The coconut milk should melt and disappear into the rice. Remove the larger chunks of aromatics. It’s ok to leave 2-3 pieces in the rice. Fluff with a fork or rice paddle before serving.
15. 15Step 15: Rinse the rice a few times until the water runs clear, then drain well.
16. 16Step 16: Add the rice, water, coconut milk, pandan leaves, lemongrass, ginger, and salt to the Instant Pot. Stir to combine.
17. 17Step 17: Close the lid, set the valve to sealing, and pressure cook on high for 4 minutes.
18. 18Step 18: Allow a 10-minute natural release, then release any remaining pressure. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
19. 19Step 19: There may be a layer of coconut milk collecting on top of the rice, this is normal. Remove the larger chunks of aromatics. It’s ok to leave 2-3 pieces in the rice. Then fluff and gently mix with a rice paddle or fork. The coconut milk should melt and disappear into the rice.