Bali is well-known for its beautiful beaches, but it is also a popular destination for foodies. Indonesian cuisine is diverse and delicious, and Bali is a great place to try it. In 2023, there will be numerous opportunities to sample the best Indonesian cuisine in Bali.
There is something for everyone, from traditional dishes to modern interpretations. This ultimate food guide has you covered whether you’re looking for street food or high-end restaurants. Prepare to indulge in Bali’s delicious offerings and embark on a culinary journey unlike any other.
A Brief Overview of Indonesian Food and Its Popularity in Bali
Importance of food in Balinese culture
Food is important in Balinese culture as a source of sustenance, creativity, spirituality, and community bonding. Bali’s Indonesian cuisine is diverse, catering to a wide range of palates and dietary preferences. Ubud’s organic and vegan scene attracts health-conscious travellers looking for plant-based and sustainable dining options, while fusion cuisine combines traditional Indonesian flavours with international influences.
Bali’s street food culture provides authentic and reasonably priced dining experiences, with local street food stalls providing authentic and reasonably priced options. To fully immerse oneself in Bali’s food culture, one must visit night markets and roadside vendors.
The objective of the guide
The goal of providing this brief overview of Indonesian food and its popularity in Bali is to highlight the importance of food in Balinese culture, highlight Bali’s diverse culinary offerings, and emphasise the island’s fusion of flavours and culinary experiences. This guide aims to give a taste of Bali’s culinary riches, enticing both locals and visitors to explore and indulge in the vibrant food scene that makes Bali a gastronomic paradise.
Traditional Balinese Foods – Foods You Must Try
Nasi Campur
Nasi Campur is Bali’s best local, a traditional Balinese dish that translates as “mixed rice.” It usually consists of a serving of steamed rice and a variety of small side dishes. Grilled meats, such as chicken or pork, mixed vegetables, sambal (spicy sauce), fried tempeh, tofu, and other flavorful components can be found in these side dishes. Nasi Campur serves a variety of Balinese flavours in a single satisfying meal.
Sate Lilit
Sate Lilit is a type of satay that is only found in Bali. It is made by blending minced meat, usually fish or chicken, with grated coconut, spices, and herbs. The mixture is wrapped around a skewer, which is usually made of lemongrass or bamboo, and grilled over charcoal. Sate Lilit is a must-try Balinese delicacy due to its fragrant aroma and delicious smoky flavour.
Babi Guling
Babi Guling, also known as “suckling pig,” is a traditional Bali dish. It is made by roasting a whole pig that has been marinated in a spice blend that typically includes turmeric, coriander, lemongrass, and garlic. As a result, the meat is succulent and flavorful, with a crispy skin. Babi Guling is frequently accompanied by rice, lawar (a mixed vegetable and meat dish), and sambal. In Balinese culture, it is a celebratory dish that is commonly served during ceremonies and special occasions.
Lawar
Lawar is a traditional Balinese dish made with chopped vegetables, grated coconut, minced meat (usually pork or chicken), and various herbs and spices. To improve the flavour and texture, it is frequently combined with blood or coconut milk. Lawar is available raw (lawar putih) or cooked (lawar merah). It’s a vibrant and flavorful dish that exemplifies the complexities of Balinese cuisine.
Bebek Betutu
Bebek Betutu is a Balinese dish made of slow-cooked duck. Turmeric, ginger, galangal, shallots, garlic, and chilli are among the spices used to season the duck. The marinated duck is then wrapped in banana leaves and traditionally cooked in an underground pit, imparting smoky flavours to the meat. As a result, the duck meat is tender and aromatic, and it is frequently served with rice, sambal, and vegetables.
Sumping
Sumping is a glutinous rice-based traditional Balinese dessert. Cooked with coconut milk, pandan leaves, and a pinch of salt, the rice has a sweet and creamy flavour. Cooked rice is shaped into small cones or balls and topped with grated coconut. Sumping is a delicious snack or dessert that is often served with Balinese coffee or tea.
Street Indonesian Foods in Bali
Gado-Gado
Gado-gado is a popular Indonesian street food popular in Bali. It is a light and healthy vegetable salad made with boiled vegetables such as cabbage, bean sprouts, spinach, and water spinach, as well as tofu, tempeh, and hard-boiled eggs. The salad is then topped with crispy prawn crackers and a rich and flavorful peanut sauce. Gado-gado is a delicious combination of textures and flavours that is a must-try for vegetarians and those who enjoy a variety of flavours.
Martabak
Martabak is a well-known Indonesian street food that has grown in popularity in Bali. It’s a savoury or sweet stuffed pancake made with a thick, doughy batter. For sweet versions, the pancake is filled with ingredients such as minced meat, vegetables, eggs, cheese, and sometimes chocolate or condensed milk. Martabak is folded and pan-fried until crispy before being served with a tangy dipping sauce. Martabak, whether savoury or sweet, is a delicious and satisfying treat that can be enjoyed at any time of day.
Sate
Sate, also known as satay, is a traditional Indonesian street food that has become a Bali institution. It is made up of skewered and grilled pieces of meat, usually chicken, beef, or lamb, that have been marinated in a flavorful blend of spices and served with a side of peanut sauce. Sate is frequently served with lontong (compressed rice cake), cucumber slices, and shallots. Sate is an irresistible and finger-licking delight thanks to its smoky aroma and tender, charred meat.
Bakso
Bakso is a popular street food in Indonesia, particularly in Bali. It’s a filling meatball soup made with ground meat (usually beef or chicken), tapioca starch, and seasonings. The meatballs are then boiled and served with noodles, bean sprouts, and crispy fried shallots in a flavorful broth. Bakso is frequently served with condiments such as chilli sauce, sweet soy sauce, and lime juice. This hearty and filling dish is popular with both locals and visitors.
Rujak
Rujak is a traditional Indonesian fruit salad with a delicious blend of sweet, sour, spicy, and tangy flavours. A popular version of rujak in Bali’s street food scene is rujak buah, which consists of a mix of tropical fruits such as pineapple, mango, guava, and jicama. The fruits are tossed in sweet and spicy tamarind, palm sugar, chilli and prawn paste dressing. Rujak is a refreshing and energising snack that showcases Bali’s tropical fruits.
Nasi Goreng
Nasi Goreng, which translates to “fried rice,” is a popular Indonesian street food in Bali. It’s a flavorful dish made by stir-frying pre-cooked rice with a variety of ingredients like prawns, chicken, vegetables, soy sauce and spices. Nasi Goreng is frequently topped with a fried egg and served with pickles, prawn crackers, and sambal (spicy chilli sauce). This aromatic and filling dish is a popular choice among locals and tourists looking for a taste of Indonesian comfort food.
An Indonesian Food Tour of Bali
Culinary experiences across various regions of Bali
A food tour of Bali allows you to discover the island’s culinary diversity. Bali is divided into regions, each with its own distinct flavours and traditional dishes. You can embark on a culinary adventure that takes you through different regions, sampling their distinct cuisines and experiencing the local food culture, from the spicy specialities of Denpasar to the seafood delights of Jimbaran and the vegetarian options in Ubud.
Customising your own Indonesian food tour
One of the benefits of a Bali food tour is the ability to tailor it to your specific tastes. You can customise your tour based on dietary restrictions, cuisine preferences, or specific dishes you want to try. Whether you like spicy food, prefer vegetarian options, or want to learn more about a specific regional cuisine, you can create a personalised food tour itinerary with a tour organiser or local guide.
Group tours vs. solo tours
A food tour in Bali provides food lovers with an immersive experience, allowing them to explore the island’s culinary treasures, customise their tour based on their preferences, and choose between group and solo tours. Solo tours provide greater flexibility and personalised experiences than group tours.
Both types of tours take you to local markets, street food stalls, family-run restaurants, and high-end restaurants, giving you a comprehensive taste of Bali’s culinary offerings. The experience is tailored to your preferences and level of immersion, whether you choose a group or solo tour.
Conclusion
Finally, a Bali food tour provides access to the best Indonesian cuisine the island has to offer. Bali offers a culinary adventure that caters to all preferences, from diverse culinary experiences across various regions to the ability to customise your own tour. Discover the rich flavours, traditional dishes, and fusion creations that make this island a gastronomic paradise by immersing yourself in Balinese food culture.
Remember to embrace the vibrant street food culture, visit local markets and family-run eateries, and try both solo and group tours to achieve the level of immersion you desire. Don’t pass up the opportunity to experience Bali’s distinct flavours and create unforgettable culinary memories on this enchanting island.
