Delicious Discoveries: What to Eat in Bali

— Bali is a vibrant island that promises adventures not just for the soul seeking serenity amidst its lush landscapes but also for the palate eager to explore its rich culinary heritage. The fusion of traditional Indonesian elements with a dash of Balinese uniqueness makes its cuisine an exhilarating journey of taste, texture, and aroma. From crispy skin and tender meat of Babi Guling to the refreshing burst of Es Campur, every dish tells a story of the island’s history and culture. In this blog post, we will dive deep into the world of Balinese culinary delights, spotlighting ten dishes that are not to be missed. These range from savory to sweet, each representing the diverse food culture of Bali. So, whether you’re planning your next tropical getaway or just want to daydream about the culinary wonders of Bali, this guide will serve as your ultimate food itinerary. ### 1. Babi Guling – Suckling Pig Babi Guling, often hailed as Bali’s signature dish, is a must-try for any adventurous eater visiting the island. Known for its crispy-skinned suckling pig, this dish is traditionally prepared for ceremonial occasions but has become a beloved staple served in many local warungs (small family-owned restaurants). The pig is marinated with a blend of spices including turmeric, coriander, lemongrass, and garlic, then slow-roasted to perfection. The beauty of Babi Guling lies in its combination of flavors—the spice-infused succulent meat, the crispy skin that crunches with each bite, and the accompanying sides of rice and various vegetables. Eating Babi Guling is not just about savoring the flavors but also about experiencing a part of Balinese culture, where whole-roasted pigs are integral to many traditional ceremonies and celebrations. ### 2. Gado Gado – Indonesian Salad Gado Gado, translating to “mix mix,” is Bali’s answer to a hearty, healthy salad. This Indonesian salad is composed of a colorful blend of steamed and raw vegetables like cabbage, bean sprouts, potatoes, and spinach. The star of the dish, however, is the rich peanut sauce that generously coats these ingredients. What makes Gado Gado stand out is its versatility—a vegetarian delight that can be found everywhere from street stalls to high-end eateries. It’s often topped with slices of hard-boiled eggs and occasionally tofu or tempeh to add protein, making it not only delicious but also nutritious. The key to an authentic Gado Gado lies in the freshness of the ingredients and the balance of sweet, salty, and spicy flavors in the peanut dressing. ### 3. Mie Goreng – Stir Fried Noodles A classic favorite on Bali’s menus, Mie Goreng embodies the perfect blend of Indonesian flavors and a universal love for noodles. This dish involves stir-frying yellow wheat noodles with a medley of local spices, soy sauce, vegetables, and typically a choice of protein such as chicken, shrimp, or tofu. Every bite of Mie Goreng offers a burst of umami from the soy sauce and sambal (chili paste), giving it a punchy zest that locals and tourists alike crave. While it’s a staple street food, its essence and richness vary based on the chef’s touch, making each plate of Mie Goreng a unique experience. Its adaptability and satisfying taste make it an ideal comfort food for any time of day. ### 4. Sate – Skewer Sate (or satay) represents Indonesia’s mastery of grilling, with Bali offering its own delectable renditions. Made by skewering marinated pieces of meat—commonly chicken, beef, or pork—and grilling them over an open flame, sate is a delightful treat for meat lovers. The marinade is typically a mixture of chili, garlic, coriander, and turmeric, creating a harmonious balance of sweet and savory notes. One can’t talk about Balinese sate without mentioning Sate Lilit. Unique to Bali, this type of sate involves minced meat wrapped around a lemongrass skewer, infused with coconut milk and aromatic spices. It’s a distinctive twist to traditional skewered meat, offering a rich depth of flavor with every bite. Whether served with a side of peanut sauce or eaten on its own, sate embodies the quintessential Indonesian barbecue experience. ### 5. Pepes Ikan – Steamed Fish in Banana Leaf Pepes Ikan showcases Bali’s abundant seafood and mastery in delicate, fragrant cooking methods. Traditionally, this dish involves steaming fresh fish—often mackerel—with a mix of local spices wrapped in banana leaves. The banana leaves impart a subtle aroma and keep the fish moist and flavorful. The preparation of Pepes Ikan is an art, with intricate spice pastes of shallots, garlic, turmeric, and chili enveloping the fish. This creates a dish that’s not only aromatic but also infused with the intense yet harmonious flavors of Balinese spices. The experience of unwrapping a Pepes Ikan feels like opening a gift, revealing a succulent, fragrant meal beneath the banana leaf folds. This delicacy captures the essence of Bali’s seafaring culture merged with its rich spice heritage. ### 6. Laklak – Balinese Cake When it comes to dessert, Laklak stands out as a beloved traditional sweet treat in Bali. These green-colored mini pancakes are crafted from rice flour and pandan leaves, giving them their iconic color and unique flavor. Usually served warm, they are topped with melted palm sugar and grated coconut, adding a delightful sugary richness and texture. Laklak reflects the simplicity and natural flavors of Balinese cuisine, where local ingredients shine. You can often find these pancakes being prepared fresh at traditional markets, enticing locals and tourists alike with their sweet aroma and charming appearance. The enjoyment of Laklak goes beyond its taste, as it’s a sensory delight—visual, aromatic, and flavorful, all at once. ### 7. Nasi Campur – Mixed Rice A signature Indonesian dish, Nasi Campur offers a diverse glimpse into Bali’s culinary landscape. Literally translated to “mixed rice,” this meal presents a plate of steamed rice surrounded by a variety of side dishes that can include meats, vegetables, eggs, peanuts, and sambal. Each element showcases a range of textures and flavors, highlighted by the central role of rice—a staple in Balinese meals. What makes Nasi Campur a must-try is its element of surprise—no two servings are quite the same. The assortment varies depending on the region and the cook’s creativity, and often incorporates local specialties. It’s a culinary adventure that invites you to savor a little of everything Bali has to offer, making it an ideal introduction to the island’s diverse food scene. ### 8. Es Campur – Shaved Ice To combat Bali’s tropical heat, Es Campur is the perfect refreshing treat. This popular dessert involves a bowl of finely shaved ice adorned with an assortment of colorful toppings like jelly, fruit pieces, sweetened red beans, and vibrant squiggles of cendol (green rice flour jelly). The final touch is a drizzle of condensed milk or coconut milk, enhancing the sweetness and richness of the dessert. Es Campur is a feast for the senses; the crunch of ice mingles with the chewiness of the toppings, creating an alluring blend of textures. As you indulge, each spoonful promises a different combination of flavors, embodying the playful and colorful spirit of Balinese confections. This cool, kaleidoscopic dessert stands as a delightful escape from the warmth of the island. ### 9. Bubur Sumsum – Black Rice Pudding With its roots firmly planted in tradition, Bubur Sumsum is a sweet treat that highlights Balinese comfort eating. This pudding is crafted from black glutinous rice boiled to a soft consistency, sweetened with coconut milk and sugar. It’s typically served with a drizzle of palm sugar syrup, adding an extra layer of flavor. The creamy, rich texture of Bubur Sumsum makes it an irresistible dessert or even a breakfast choice for those wishing to start their day with something sweet and full-bodied. Its simplicity is its strength—relying on local ingredients without the need for extravagant presentation yet delivering a heartwarming flavor that resonates with anyone who tries it. ### 10. Pisang Goreng – Fried Bananas Pisang Goreng is synonymous with warmth and comfort, a popular street snack that Balinese locals often enjoy. Simple in its preparation, these fried bananas are coated in a light batter and deep-fried to golden perfection. The result is an exterior that’s crispy, concealing a soft, sweet interior. The natural sugars in the ripe bananas caramelize during frying, creating a treat that’s both satisfying and comforting. Commonly served with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a scoop of ice cream for an extra indulgence, Pisang Goreng is a delightful way to experience the sweet side of Balinese street food culture. It’s an example of how simple ingredients, when prepared with care, can create something truly delicious. — ### Lessons Learned Exploring Bali through its food is an encapsulation of the island’s rich history, culture, and diversity. From savory offerings like Babi Guling to sweet endings with Pisang Goreng, each dish presents a unique narrative about the island’s evolving culinary scene. Whether you’re a globetrotter or a food enthusiast, the flavors of Bali offer a journey worth taking. Below is a summarized guide in the form of a table for easy reference.