Bami Goreng Homemade Spice Blend: Bring Indonesian Street-Style Fried Noodles to Your Kitchen
Table of Contents
- Key Takeaways: Bami Goreng Spice Blend
- What Is Bami Goreng Spice Mix Made Of?
- How to Make Bami Goreng Spice Blend from Scratch
- Is Bami Goreng Spice Blend Gluten-Free or Vegan?
- What Is the Difference Between Bami Goreng and Nasi Goreng Spice Blends?
- Can You Substitute Bami Goreng and Nasi Goreng Spice Blends?
- How to Use Bami Goreng Spice Blend for the Ultimate Authentic Fried Noodles at Home
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Key Takeaways: Bami Goreng Spice Blend
What are the key spices and herbs in an authentic Bami Goreng spice blend?
An authentic Bami Goreng spice blend combines coriander, cumin, turmeric, garlic, ginger, galangal, lemongrass, shallots, red bell pepper, paprika, kaffir lime, chives, leeks, cardamom, fenugreek, star anise, and white pepper. These spices create the signature sweet, savory, aromatic, and mildly spicy flavor of Indonesian street-style fried noodles.
How do you make homemade Bami Goreng spice mix from scratch?
To make a homemade Bami Goreng spice blend:
- Measure and mix dry spices in these approximate ratios: coriander (11g), cumin (11g), turmeric (11g), onion powder (11g), garlic powder (5g), lemongrass (5g), red bell pepper (5g), shallots (5g), ginger (3g), galangal (3g), white pepper (3g), cardamom (5g), chives (3g), fenugreek (2g), star anise (2g), kaffir lime (1g), cilantro (1g), leeks (2g).
- Store in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.
- For use, mix with a little oil and water to form a paste that can coat noodles or proteins evenly.
What is the difference between Bami Goreng and Nasi Goreng spice blends?
The key difference lies in the base ingredient and flavor balance:
- Bami Goreng is designed for noodles, with a milder, sweeter profile, more garlic, lemongrass, and sweet soy sauce (kecap manis).
- Nasi Goreng is for rice, spicier and earthier, with more chili, shallots, tamarind, and sometimes candlenut for depth.
Both share foundational spices like coriander, cumin, turmeric, and ginger, but the proportions are tailored to the dish.
Can Bami Goreng spice blend be customized for vegan or keto diets?
Yes!
- Vegan: Avoid Trassi (shrimp paste) or fish-based sauces. Replace with mushroom or soy-based umami alternatives.
- Keto: Skip sugar-heavy kecap manis; use unsweetened soy sauce or tamari and naturally low-carb vegetables and proteins.
The spice blend itself is plant-based and naturally keto-friendly, making it easy to adapt.
Can you use Bami Goreng spices for other noodle or rice dishes?
Absolutely! Bami Goreng spices are versatile:
- Stir-fried noodles: Any wheat or rice noodle dish can benefit from this aromatic blend.
- Fried rice: Works as a milder alternative to Nasi Goreng seasoning, especially if you add a touch of chili or tamarind.
- Vegetables or protein stir-fries: Adds depth, warmth, and umami to tofu, chicken, shrimp, or vegetable dishes.
How to store Bami Goreng spice blend to preserve freshness and flavor?
Proper storage ensures maximum aroma and longevity:
- Use an airtight glass jar or spice container.
- Store in a cool, dark place away from heat, light, or moisture.
- Avoid keeping it near the stove or in direct sunlight.
- For long-term storage, you can also freeze the spice blend in small portions to preserve color, flavor, and potency.
What Is Bami Goreng Spice Mix Made Of?
Bami Goreng spice mix is a fragrant Indonesian-inspired blend that brings together a perfect balance of aromatic herbs, warm spices, and citrusy notes. This seasoning is the secret behind the authentic flavor of Bami Goreng which is a classic Indonesian stir-fried noodle dish loved across Asia and beyond.
Here’s what goes into this flavorful mix:
- Cardamom Green – Adds a soft, sweet aroma with hints of citrus and mint, giving the spice blend a delicate lift.
- Chives – Bring a gentle onion flavor that complements both meat and vegetable dishes.
- Cilantro (Coriander Leaves) – Offers a fresh, herbal taste that balances the deeper spices.
- Coriander Seeds – Add a mild, nutty warmth that forms the foundation of many Southeast Asian blends.
- Cumin – Contributes an earthy, slightly smoky depth that enhances the savory character of noodles and meats.
- Fenugreek – Introduces subtle sweetness and a hint of bitterness for balance.
- Galangal (Ground) – A close relative of ginger, galangal gives a sharp, citrusy, and peppery zing typical of Indonesian cuisine.
- Garlic Powder – Provides rich umami and a strong savory aroma that anchors the blend.
- Ginger Powder – Adds warmth and a touch of spice, pairing beautifully with galangal.
- Kaffir Lime Leaves – Deliver a bright, citrus fragrance that refreshes the overall flavor.
- Leeks – Offer a mild, sweet onion tone that softens the intensity of stronger spices.
- Lemongrass – Infuses the mix with a fresh lemony aroma, a hallmark of Indonesian and Thai cooking.
- Onion Powder – Enhances depth and adds a touch of sweetness to the blend.
- Paprika – Gives a gentle heat and beautiful red color to the dish.
- Red Bell Pepper – Adds sweetness and color, rounding out the savory flavors.
- Shallots – Contribute mild sweetness and a refined onion flavor.
- Star Anise – Provides a warm, slightly sweet licorice-like note, often used in Southeast Asian cooking.
- Turmeric – Adds a golden hue and earthy aroma while supporting the body with natural antioxidants.
- White Pepper – Offers a mild, clean spiciness that ties the blend together.
Together, these ingredients create a harmonious, aromatic blend that transforms stir-fried noodles, rice, or grilled meats into a full-flavored, restaurant-quality dish.
How to Make Bami Goreng Spice Blend from Scratch
🌿 Ingredients (for one small jar)
- Cardamom Green – 5 g
- Chives – 3 g
- Cilantro Leaves – 1 g
- Coriander Seeds – 11 g
- Cumin Seeds – 11 g
- Fenugreek – 2 g
- Galangal (Ground) – 3 g
- Garlic Powder – 5 g
- Ginger Powder – 3 g
- Kaffir Lime Leaves (Dried) – 1 g
- Leeks (Dried) – 2 g
- Lemongrass (Dried) – 5 g
- Onion Powder – 11 g
- Paprika – 11 g
- Red Bell Pepper (Dried) – 5 g
- Shallots (Dried) – 5 g
- Star Anise – 2 g
- Turmeric – 11 g
- White Pepper – 3 g
🥣 Instructions
- Toast the whole spices – Lightly toast the coriander, cumin, fenugreek, and star anise in a dry pan over low heat for 1–2 minutes. This step releases their natural oils and intensifies the flavor.
- Cool completely – Allow the toasted spices to cool before grinding.
- Grind to a fine powder – Use a spice grinder or mortar and pestle to grind the toasted spices until smooth.
- Add the remaining ingredients – Combine the ground spices with the remaining powders and dried herbs: galangal, garlic, ginger, onion, paprika, turmeric, and others listed above.
- Mix thoroughly – Stir or shake well to ensure all flavors are evenly distributed.
- Store properly – Transfer your homemade Bami Goreng spice blend into an airtight glass jar. Keep it in a cool, dry place away from sunlight to preserve freshness and aroma.
🍜 Tips for Best Flavor
- For extra depth, use freshly ground coriander and cumin seeds.
- Adjust the heat and sweetness by varying the paprika and bell pepper amounts.
- If you prefer a more citrus-forward blend, increase lemongrass and kaffir lime
- Always use dry utensils when scooping out the spice to prevent clumping.
Is Bami Goreng Spice Blend Gluten-Free or Vegan?
The gluten-free and vegan status of Bami Goreng spice blend depends entirely on how it’s made and whether you’re using a store-bought mix or a homemade version.
🌾 Gluten-Free Status
Not always gluten-free.
While the spices and herbs in a traditional Bami Goreng blend (like coriander, cumin, turmeric, garlic, and ginger) are naturally gluten-free, many commercial spice packets and ready-made pastes include added ingredients that may contain gluten.
Common gluten-containing additives include:
- Wheat-based soy sauce (especially kecap manis, the sweet Indonesian soy sauce used in the dish)
- Wheat starch or thickeners used as binders or fillers
To ensure your dish is gluten-free:
- Read labels carefully — avoid blends containing soy sauce or unspecified “flavorings.”
- Use Tamari or another gluten-free soy sauce substitute instead of regular soy sauce.
- Make your own spice blend from raw ingredients.
🌱 Vegan Status
Not always vegan.
While most of the spices in a Bami Goreng blend come from plants, some traditional or commercial versions include non-vegan ingredients to enhance umami flavor.
These may include:
- Trassi (shrimp paste) – a common ingredient in authentic Indonesian seasoning
- Oyster sauce or fish sauce – used for savory depth
- Animal-derived flavor enhancers
To make your Bami Goreng vegan:
- Avoid blends listing shrimp paste, fish extract, or oyster sauce.
- Opt for vegan-certified products that use yeast extract, soy sauce, or mushroom-based umami instead.
- Homemade blends are naturally vegan if you use only plant-based spices and seasonings.
✅ In Summary
- Gluten-Free: The spice blend itself is gluten-free, but sauces (especially kecap manis) may contain wheat. Use Tamari or gluten-free soy sauce as a substitute.
- Vegan: Most homemade or plant-based blends are vegan, but traditional or store-bought versions may include shrimp paste or other animal-derived ingredients.
Watch the Video
⚡️The Ultimate Keto Meal Plan⚡️
What Is the Difference Between Bami Goreng and Nasi Goreng Spice Blends?
🍜 Bami Goreng Spice Blend (For Fried Noodles)
The word “Bami” means noodles in Indonesian, and this blend is designed to coat noodles evenly while adding a gentle depth of flavor.Flavor Profile:- Milder and slightly sweeter than Nasi Goreng
- Rich in garlic, onion, lemongrass, and sweet soy sauce (kecap manis)
- Often includes Trassi (shrimp paste) for umami
- Light on chili heat, making it smooth and aromatic rather than fiery
🍚 Nasi Goreng Spice Blend (For Fried Rice)
Nasi means rice, and this blend is formulated to bring out bold, smoky, and spicy flavors that cling to fried rice grains.Flavor Profile:- Spicier and more robust than Bami Goreng
- Includes more chili or sambal oelek (chili paste) for heat
- Uses shallots, garlic, tamarind, and Trassi (shrimp paste) for deep umami
- Slightly less sweet, with a focus on earthy and savory tones
🔑 Main Differences at a Glance (Text Summary)
- Base Dish: Bami Goreng = noodles | Nasi Goreng = rice
- Heat Level: Bami Goreng is mild; Nasi Goreng is spicier
- Sweetness: Bami Goreng uses more sweet soy sauce (kecap manis); Nasi Goreng has a drier, earthier taste
- Aromatics: Bami Goreng leans on ginger and lemongrass; Nasi Goreng uses shallots and chili for intensity
- Umami Boosters: Both may use Trassi (shrimp paste), but Nasi Goreng tends to use more for stronger depth
Can You Substitute Bami Goreng and Nasi Goreng Spice Blends?
You can substitute Bami Goreng and Nasi Goreng spice blends in cooking, but the results won’t be identical. The flavor and texture of your dish will change slightly depending on which one you use.
🍜 When Using Bami Goreng Spice Blend Instead of Nasi Goreng
If you use a Bami Goreng blend for fried rice, expect a milder and sweeter flavor. This blend contains more garlic, lemongrass, and sweet soy notes, giving rice a softer and slightly caramelized taste rather than the bold, spicy punch typical of Nasi Goreng.
To make it closer to authentic Nasi Goreng, try adding:
- A small spoon of chili paste (sambal oelek) for heat
- A dash of tamarind or lime juice for tang
- A touch of extra soy sauce for a deeper color and umami
This quick tweak gives your fried rice that traditional Indonesian flavor balance.
🍚 When Using Nasi Goreng Spice Blend Instead of Bami Goreng
If you use Nasi Goreng seasoning for noodles, you’ll get a spicier, more robust result. This blend has more chili and often includes tamarind or shrimp paste, which can overpower delicate noodles.
To soften the flavor for noodle dishes:
- Add a little brown sugar or sweet soy sauce (kecap manis) to balance the spice
- Stir in a few drops of lime juice or a pinch of ginger for freshness
- Mix with extra oil or coconut milk to mellow the heat and help coat the noodles evenly
🌿 Expert Tip
If you cook both noodle and rice dishes often, keep both spice blends in your pantry. While their ingredients overlap, the proportions are designed to complement their base ingredients — rice absorbs bold flavors, whereas noodles carry sweetness and aroma more gently.
You can buy Pure and Gluten-Free Bami Goreng Seasoning From Amazon
You’ll find several reputable brands offering pre-made blends in both small jars and bulk packs.
How to Use Bami Goreng Spice Blend for the Ultimate Authentic Fried Noodles at Home
🥢 What You’ll Need
Ingredients:- 200g dried egg noodles (or rice noodles for gluten-free)
- 2 tbsp Bami Goreng spice blend
- 2 tbsp kecap manis (Indonesian sweet soy sauce)
- 1 tbsp oil (vegetable, canola, or peanut oil)
- 100g protein of your choice (chicken, shrimp, tofu)
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (cabbage, carrot, bean sprouts)
- 1 egg (optional)
- Fried shallots to garnish
- ¼ tsp trassi (fermented shrimp paste)
- 1 tsp sambal oelek for heat
- Lime wedges for serving
🔥 Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Prepare the Noodles
Boil the noodles until just al dente (about 2 minutes less than package instructions). Rinse under cold water and drain thoroughly to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking.2. Heat Your Wok
Preheat your wok or large frying pan over high heat. Add the oil and let it shimmer — it should be hot enough that a piece of onion sizzles immediately.3. Sauté the Aromatics
Add minced garlic and finely sliced shallots. Stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant and golden. This forms the aromatic base of the dish.4. Add Protein
Add your protein (chicken, shrimp, or tofu). Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until cooked through. Remove and set aside.5. Build the Spice Base (Boemboe)
Mix 2 tbsp of your Bami Goreng spice blend with a tablespoon of water and a splash of oil to create a thick paste. Add this paste to the wok and stir-fry for 30–60 seconds until aromatic. This helps “bloom” the spices and deepen the flavor.💡 Tip: If you have trassi, add ¼ tsp at this stage for true Indonesian depth.6. Add Vegetables
Toss in your chopped cabbage, carrots, and bean sprouts. Stir-fry for 1–2 minutes until crisp-tender.7. Combine Everything
Return the protein to the wok, add the noodles, and toss everything together. Pour in kecap manis and, if desired, a dash of soy sauce and sambal oelek. Stir-fry on high heat for another 2–3 minutes. The noodles should caramelize slightly and absorb the dark, glossy sauce.8. Optional Egg Step
Push everything to one side of the wok, crack in the egg, scramble lightly, and mix back through.9. The Final Toss
Keep the noodles moving quickly over high heat to achieve that authentic smoky “wok hei” flavor.10. Garnish and Serve
Top with fried shallots, fresh scallions, and lime wedges. Serve immediately with sliced cucumber and tomato for a true street-style presentation.🌺 Chef’s Tips for Perfect Bami Goreng
- High heat is non-negotiable: Use the highest heat your stove can handle.
- Don’t overcrowd the wok: Cook in batches if needed. Too much at once makes noodles soggy.
- Rehydrate your spice blend: Mixing it into a paste prevents burning and maximizes flavor.
- Caramelize the sauce: Add soy sauce and kecap manis to the edges of the wok for smoky caramelization.
- Texture matters: Noodles should be slightly chewy, vegetables crisp, and sauce glossy.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Bami Goreng is traditionally served with:- Kroepoek (shrimp crackers)
- Fried egg or sliced omelette
- Pickled vegetables (acar)
- A small spoon of sambal oelek
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can Bami Goreng spice blend be used for gluten-free recipes?
Yes, if you use a homemade spice blend without wheat-based soy sauce or thickeners. For authentic flavor, replace kecap manis with gluten-free tamari or a mix of tamari and sugar. Most store-bought blends may contain gluten, so always check labels.
How long does homemade Bami Goreng spice blend last?
When stored properly in an airtight container away from heat, light, and moisture, homemade Bami Goreng spice blend can last 6–12 months. Freezing small portions extends freshness, aroma, and flavor even longer.
Can I use Bami Goreng spice blend for vegetarian dishes?
Absolutely! The spice mix itself is plant-based. Simply replace shrimp paste or fish sauce with soy sauce, mushroom paste, or miso to make a fully vegetarian or vegan dish.
What noodles are best for Bami Goreng?
Traditional Bami Goreng uses yellow egg noodles or fresh wheat noodles, which absorb the sauce and spice paste well. For gluten-free options, rice noodles or shirataki noodles work perfectly.
Can I make Bami Goreng spice blend in advance?
Yes! Dry spice blends can be made weeks ahead and stored in airtight jars. Mix with oil and a little water just before cooking to create the aromatic paste that coats noodles evenly.
How spicy is Bami Goreng compared to other Indonesian dishes?
Bami Goreng is mildly spicy by default. Most homemade or traditional blends use just a hint of chili. You can adjust the heat by adding sambal oelek, fresh chilies, or chili flakes depending on your preference.
Can Bami Goreng spices be used for fried rice dishes?
Yes! While the flavor will be milder than Nasi Goreng, Bami Goreng spice blend works beautifully with rice. Add extra chili, tamarind, or soy sauce to enhance the taste for a more authentic fried rice experience.
Are Bami Goreng spices suitable for meal prep or batch cooking?
Definitely. The spice blend retains its flavor in pre-cooked noodles or proteins. Store cooked noodles in airtight containers and reheat with a splash of soy sauce or water to revive the flavors.
What proteins pair best with Bami Goreng?
Chicken, shrimp, tofu, or tempeh work perfectly. The spice blend is versatile and complements vegetables and proteins alike, allowing you to create both vegetarian and non-vegetarian versions.
Can I adjust Bami Goreng spice blend for low-sodium diets?
Yes. Reduce or skip added salt and soy sauce in the recipe. Use low-sodium soy sauce or tamari and enhance flavor with garlic, ginger, lemongrass, and lime juice for a healthier option without losing aroma or taste.
Can Bami Goreng spice blend be made into a paste for more intense flavor?
Absolutely! Combine dry spice blend with oil and water to create a paste (boemboe). This technique “blooms” the spices, intensifying aroma and coating noodles evenly for authentic Indonesian flavor.
What makes Bami Goreng different from other Asian noodle stir-fries?
The unique combination of aromatic spices, sweet soy sauce, and mild heat sets Bami Goreng apart. Unlike Chinese or Thai stir-fries, it emphasizes savory-sweet balance, aromatic herbs like lemongrass and kaffir lime, and optional shrimp paste for umami depth.
