A Guide to Balinese Cuisine: Must-Try Dishes

Balinese cuisine is a delightful blend of spices, fresh ingredients, and traditional cooking techniques that reflect the island's rich cultural heritage. In this post, we'll explore some of the must-try dishes that you simply can't miss during your visit to Bali.

1. Nasi Goreng

Nasi Goreng, or Indonesian fried rice, is a staple dish that you'll find everywhere in Bali. This flavorful dish is made with rice stir-fried with a mix of vegetables, eggs, and a choice of meat or seafood. It's often seasoned with sweet soy sauce (kecap manis) and served with a fried egg on top, along with prawn crackers and pickles. Nasi Goreng is a perfect introduction to Balinese cuisine and a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

2. Babi Guling

Babi Guling, or Balinese roast pork, is a dish that holds a special place in Balinese culture. Traditionally prepared for ceremonies and special occasions, Babi Guling involves roasting a whole pig stuffed with a mixture of spices, including turmeric, coriander, lemongrass, and garlic. The result is tender, flavorful meat with crispy skin. You can find this dish at many warungs (local eateries) across the island, with some of the best spots being in Ubud and Gianyar.

3. Satay (Sate)

Satay is a popular Indonesian dish that consists of skewered and grilled meat, served with a rich peanut sauce. In Bali, you'll find a variety of satay, including chicken (sate ayam), pork (sate babi), and even fish (sate lilit). Sate lilit is unique to Bali and is made by wrapping minced fish around bamboo sticks before grilling. The combination of smoky, grilled meat and the creamy peanut sauce is simply irresistible.

4. Lawar

Lawar is a traditional Balinese salad made with a mix of vegetables, grated coconut, minced meat, and a blend of spices. There are many variations of lawar, with some including jackfruit or green beans. The dish is often served as a side dish with rice and other main courses. Lawar is a great way to experience the bold and complex flavors of Balinese cuisine.

5. Bebek Betutu

Bebek Betutu is a famous Balinese dish that features duck marinated in a rich spice paste and wrapped in banana leaves before being slow-cooked until tender. The spice paste typically includes turmeric, ginger, garlic, and shallots, giving the dish a deep, aromatic flavor. Bebek Betutu is often reserved for special occasions, but you can find it at select restaurants across Bali.

6. Nasi Campur

Nasi Campur, or mixed rice, is a popular dish that offers a little bit of everything. It consists of a mound of rice surrounded by small portions of various dishes, such as meats, vegetables, peanuts, eggs, and fried-shrimp krupuk. Each bite offers a different taste and texture, making it a great way to sample a variety of Balinese flavors in one meal.

7. Pisang Goreng

For dessert, don't miss out on Pisang Goreng, or fried bananas. This simple yet delicious treat involves coating ripe bananas in batter and deep-frying them until golden brown. They're often served with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. Pisang Goreng is a popular snack in Bali and a perfect way to end your culinary adventure.

8. Ayam Betutu

Betutu is a traditional Balinese dish made from steamed or roasted chicken or duck, seasoned with a rich blend of spices. This flavorful dish is especially popular in Bali and Lombok. The spice mix includes shallots, garlic, turmeric, ginger, wild ginger, galangal, candlenuts, chili peppers, shrimp paste, and peanuts, all finely ground with a mortar and pestle. After sautéing, the mixture is applied to the poultry. The taste and cooking methods of Betutu can vary across different regions in Bali.

9. Rujak Bulung

Rujak Bulung, a beloved seaweed dish in Bali, is a top choice among locals. It's easy to find at numerous stalls serving Balinese cuisine. Known for its tangy taste, Rujak Bulung is not only enjoyed for its flavor but also for its health benefits. The Balinese often consume it to help relieve nausea and vomiting.

10. Bubur Injin

Bubur Injin, a renowned Balinese black rice pudding, is a popular dessert in Bali. It's simple to prepare and incredibly delicious. This delightful treat is made by combining black rice with glutinous rice to achieve a smooth texture, sweetening it with palm sugar, and drenching it in coconut sauce. Once you taste it, you'll be craving more!

Balinese cuisine is a feast for the senses, offering a rich tapestry of flavors, textures, and aromas. From savory dishes like Nasi Goreng and Babi Guling to sweet treats like Pisang Goreng, there's something to delight every palate. I hope this guide inspires you to explore the culinary delights of Bali and savor the unique tastes of this beautiful island.

Stay tuned for more insights and tips on exploring the wonders of Bali!