The name 'nasi katok' roughly means 'knock-knock rice' — legend has it that the meal got its name from customers knocking on doors late at night to buy food from people selling it from their homes. Today nasi katok stalls and small shops can be found on almost every street in Brunei, open from very early in the morning until late at night.
What makes nasi katok special is how affordable and satisfying it is. For a very small amount of money, anyone can get a filling, delicious meal. The rice is perfectly steamed and fluffy, the chicken is fried until the skin is crispy, and the sambal adds a rich, deep flavour. It is Brunei's answer to fast food — but made fresh each time.
Although the basic recipe is simple, every stall has its own slightly different sambal recipe — some are sweeter, some spicier, some have more ingredients. Bruneians often have strong opinions about which stall makes the best nasi katok and will travel across town to visit a favourite. It is a dish that brings the whole country together.