10+ Best Foods You Must Try in Bali During Your Visit
Okay, let’s talk about Bali… not just the beaches and temples, but the real MVPs: the food! Get ready to drool because we’re about to jump into a culinary adventure featuring the best foods you must try in Bali. Your taste buds are about to thank you, big time.
1. Babi Guling (Roast Suckling Pig)
What to Expect: Imagine crispy, succulent pork skin crackling with every bite, tender meat infused with aromatic herbs and spices. Babi Guling is the ultimate Balinese feast, often served with a side of lawar (minced meat salad) and satay.
Where to Find It: Warung Babi Guling Ibu Oka in Ubud is a legendary spot, but you’ll find delicious Babi Guling all over the island.
Pro Tip: Don’t be shy about getting your hands dirty – Babi Guling is best enjoyed the traditional way!
2. Nasi Campur (Mixed Rice)
What to Expect: A vibrant platter showcasing Bali’s culinary diversity. Nasi Campur is a medley of rice, vegetables, meats, and flavorful sambals (chili pastes). It’s a perfect introduction to the island’s rich flavors and textures.
Where to Find It: Almost every warung (local eatery) serves its own version of Nasi Campur. Be adventurous and try a few!
Pro Tip: Ask for “pedas” (spicy) if you’re feeling brave.
3. Sate Lembar (Minced Meat Satay)
What to Expect: Skewers of tender minced meat marinated in a fragrant blend of spices, grilled to perfection. Sate Lembar is a popular street food, often served with peanut sauce and lontong (compressed rice cakes).
Where to Find It: Night markets and street vendors are your best bet for authentic Sate Lembar.
Pro Tip: Grab a few skewers and share them with friends – it’s the perfect social snack.
4. Jimbaran Seafood
What to Expect: Fresh-off-the-boat seafood grilled over coconut husks, served with a side of breathtaking sunset views. Jimbaran Bay is famous for its seafood restaurants lining the beach.
Where to Find It: Head to Jimbaran Bay at dusk and take your pick from the many seafood restaurants.
Pro Tip: Order a platter to share and savor the variety of flavors.
5. Lawar (Minced Meat Salad)
What to Expect: Don’t let the name fool you – Lawar is a complex and flavorful dish made with minced meat, vegetables, spices, and sometimes even blood. It’s a true Balinese specialty, often served alongside Babi Guling.
Where to Find It: Many traditional Balinese restaurants serve Lawar. Just ask!
Pro Tip: If you’re adventurous, try the “lawar merah” (red lawar) made with fresh blood.
6. Bebek Betutu (Slow-Cooked Duck)
What to Expect: A whole duck stuffed with a mix of spices and herbs, wrapped in banana leaves, and slow-cooked for hours until the meat is fall-off-the-bone tender. Bebek Betutu is a special occasion dish that’s worth the wait.
Where to Find It: Many restaurants in Ubud and other areas serve Bebek Betutu, but it’s best to order in advance.
Pro Tip: Share this dish with a group to experience its full glory.
7. Bubur Injin (Black Rice Pudding)
What to Expect: A creamy and comforting dessert made with black glutinous rice, coconut milk, and palm sugar. It’s often served warm with a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes.
Where to Find It: You’ll find Bubur Injin in many warungs and cafes across Bali.
Pro Tip: It’s perfect for breakfast or a late-night snack.
8. Pisang Rai (Steamed Banana Cakes)
What to Expect: Steamed banana cakes wrapped in banana leaves infused with the flavors of coconut and palm sugar. They’re soft, fluffy, and perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Where to Find It: Look for Pisang Rai at local markets and street vendors.
Pro Tip: They’re best enjoyed warm and fresh.
9. Es Daluman (Jelly Drink)
What to Expect: A thirst-quenching drink made with green jelly (made from seaweed), coconut milk, and palm sugar syrup. It’s a popular street food, especially on hot days.
Where to Find It: Street vendors and warungs often sell Es Daluman.
Pro Tip: Add a squeeze of lime for an extra zing.
10. Kopi Luwak (Civet Coffee)
What to Expect: The world’s most expensive coffee, made from coffee beans that have been eaten and excreted by civet cats. It’s said to have a smooth, earthy flavor.
Where to Find It: You’ll find Kopi Luwak in specialty coffee shops and some plantations.
Pro Tip: Be prepared for the high price tag, but it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
And a Few More for the Adventurous Foodies
- Urutan (Balinese Sausage) – A spicy sausage made with pork and a blend of herbs and spices.
- Tum (Steamed Fish in Banana Leaves) – A flavorful and healthy dish made with fresh fish, spices, and coconut milk.
- Rujak (Fruit Salad with Spicy Sauce): A refreshing and tangy salad made with a variety of tropical fruits and a spicy peanut sauce.
- Laklak (Balinese Pancakes) – Small, fluffy pancakes made with rice flour and coconut milk, often served with palm sugar syrup and grated coconut.
- Brem (Rice Wine) – A traditional Balinese alcoholic beverage made from fermented glutinous rice.
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