As the year draws to a close, there’s no better way to warm up than with a tropical getaway to Bali, where the beaches aren’t the only thing heating things! Renowned for its spice-rich cuisine, Bali is a paradise for food lovers seeking vibrant flavors, bold aromas, and rich culinary traditions. From the zest of lemongrass to the warmth of ginger, each dish is crafted with an abundance of local herbs and spices, ready to take your taste buds on a thrilling ride. Dive into this year-end culinary adventure and discover Bali’s signature spice-infused dishes that will leave a lasting impression!
1. Babi Guling – The King of Balinese Roast Pork
Source: https://www.idntimes.com/food/dining-guide/prila-arofani/tempat-makan-babi-guling-terenak-di-bali
One of the most iconic Balinese dishes, Babi Guling, is a roast pig seasoned with an aromatic blend of spices, herbs, and fragrant leaves. The preparation involves marinating the pig with turmeric, garlic, coriander seeds, lemongrass, and other spices. It’s then slowly roasted over an open flame, resulting in juicy, tender meat and crispy skin that’s simply mouth-watering.
Best Places to Try: Warung Ibu Oka in Ubud or Pak Malen in Seminyak.
Tip: Be sure to go early! Babi Guling is a popular dish that sells out quickly.
2. Bebek Betutu – Spiced Duck Delicacy
Source: https://www.finnafood.com/blog/cara-buat-bebek-betutu-khas-bali-yang-empuk/
This dish is perfect for duck lovers who enjoy bold, spicy flavors. Bebek Betutu is a duck stuffed with spices like turmeric, shallots, garlic, ginger, galangal, and a Balinese spice mix called bumbu genep. It’s then wrapped in banana leaves and slow-cooked for hours, allowing the meat to absorb the spices fully and become incredibly tender.
- Best Places to Try: Bebek Tepi Sawah in Ubud or Bumbu Bali in Nusa Dua.
- Pro Tip: Pair it with rice and a side of sambal matah (a Balinese raw chili condiment) for that extra zing!
3. Ayam Betutu – Balinese-Style Spiced Chicken
Ayam Betutu is the chicken version of Bebek Betutu and just as delicious! This spice-infused dish is prepared by rubbing the chicken with a rich blend of turmeric, chili, coriander, lemongrass, and ginger. Like Bebek Betutu, it’s wrapped in banana leaves and slow-cooked, which gives the chicken a flavorful and tender finish.
- Best Places to Try: Warung Makan Nyoman in Gianyar or Made’s Warung in Seminyak.
- Pro Tip: Enjoy it with sate lilit (Balinese minced meat satay) for a combo that’s rich in flavor and texture.
Source : https://banyuwangi.viva.co.id/gaya-hidup/7992-ayam-betutu-goreng-kelezatan-khas-bali-di-dapur-anda
4. Sate Lilit – Bali’s Unique Satay
Satay in Bali has its twist! Sate Lilit is minced meat (usually fish, chicken, or pork) mixed with grated coconut, lime leaves, lemongrass, and traditional Balinese spices. The mixture is wrapped around bamboo sticks or lemongrass stalks and perfectly grilled. Sate Lilit is often served with rice and spicy sambal matah.
- Best Places to Try: Warung Men Weti in Sanur or Sindhu Market for a local street food experience.
- Pro Tip: Try the fish version if you’re a seafood fan! The combination of spices and fresh fish is heavenly.
Source : https://food.detik.com/ayam/d-5176949/resep-sate-lilit-ayam-khas-bali-yang-pedas-gurih
5. Lawar – A Balinese Spiced Salad
Lawar is a traditional Balinese salad with minced meat, grated coconut, and fresh spices like garlic, chilies, and turmeric. It’s often mixed with young jackfruit or green beans for added texture and topped with fried shallots. You’ll find two versions of Lawar: white (mild) and red (which includes a dash of fresh animal blood for an earthy taste).
- Best Places to Try: Warung Wardani in Denpasar or any local warung (small restaurant) serving traditional Balinese dishes.
- Pro Tip: Lawar is typically served fresh and pairs well with rice and babi guling for a complete Balinese meal.
Source : https://www.kompas.com/food/read/2022/06/09/150300775/resep-lawar-ayam-makanan-khas-bali-yang-mudah-bikinnya
6. Urutan – Balinese Spiced Sausage
If you’re a fan of sausages, you’re in for a treat with Urutan. This Balinese sausage is made from pork and seasoned with spices, including ginger, galangal, coriander, and chili. The sausage is stuffed and traditionally left to dry in the sun, resulting in a smoky, spicy flavor that’s hard to resist.
- Best Places to Try: Try local spots in Gianyar or warungs that serve babi guling as it’s often served as a side dish.
- Pro Tip: Enjoy Urutan with a cold local beer or arak (Balinese rice wine) for a true Balinese culinary experience.
Source: https://www.tripadvisor.co.id/LocationPhotoDirectLink-g298313-d1796771-i245375359-The_Uma_Bali-Petaling_Jaya_Petaling_District_Selangor.html
7. Nasi Jinggo – Bali’s Spicy Street Snack
Nasi Jinggo is Bali’s version of a “grab-and-go” meal. It’s a small portion of rice wrapped in a banana leaf and served with various side dishes, typically spicy chicken, fried noodles, sambal, and shredded coconut. It’s perfect for those on the move or looking for a quick snack.
- Best Places to Try: Night markets across Bali or stalls near Kuta Beach.
- Pro Tip: Nasi Jinggo portions are small, so eating more than one is common, especially if you’re hungry!
Source : https://www.kompas.com/food/read/2020/09/16/071100875/resep-nasi-jinggo-sarapan-murah-ala-bali
8. Tipat Cantok – Bali’s Gado-Gado Twist
Tipat Cantok is a Balinese salad featuring rice cakes (tipat), vegetables, and a rich, spicy peanut sauce. The dish is prepared with fresh vegetables like long beans, bean sprouts, and cabbage, topped with a generous amount of peanut sauce spiced with garlic, chili, and lime juice. This dish is satisfying, flavorful, and vegetarian-friendly.
- Best Places to Try: Warung Blanjong in Sanur or local markets.
- Pro Tip: Try it with a side of krupuk (crispy crackers) for some extra crunch!
Source : https://cookpad.com/id/resep/16893351-tipat-cantok-khas-bali
Bali’s spice-laden dishes are more than just meals—they’re a journey into the heart of Balinese culture, where every bite tells a story of tradition and flavor. Picture yourself indulging in a smoky, spicy plate of Babi Guling, or savoring the aromatic richness of Ayam Betutu, with the waves crashing in the background. This holiday season, treat yourself to Bali’s unforgettable culinary treasures and feel the warmth of the island's spices. Don’t just bring back memories—bring back a taste of Bali!
To immerse yourself further in Bali’s charm, explore #WonderfulIndonesia on Instagram @wonderfulindonesia for stunning moments and inspiration for your next tropical escape.
