Are you planning a trip to Bali but not sure what to eat? Bali has a rich culinary heritage that is influenced by Indonesian, Chinese, Indian, and European cuisine. In this article, we will take you on a culinary journey to uncover the flavors of Bali. From traditional dishes to modern fusion cuisine, we will introduce you to the must-try dishes and restaurants in Bali.
Indonesian Cuisine
Indonesian cuisine is diverse and flavorful, and Bali is no exception. Here are some must-try Indonesian dishes in Bali:
Nasi Campur
Nasi Campur is a traditional Indonesian dish that consists of rice served with a variety of side dishes such as vegetables, meats, and eggs. Each region in Indonesia has its own version of Nasi Campur, but in Bali, it usually comes with crispy fried chicken, spiced beef, and crispy pork belly.
Satay
Satay is a popular Indonesian dish that consists of skewered and grilled meat served with a spicy peanut sauce. In Bali, you can find satay made from chicken, beef, or pork, and it is usually served with steamed rice and vegetables.
Nasi Goreng
Nasi Goreng is a classic Indonesian fried rice dish that is made with leftover rice, vegetables, meat, and spices. It is usually served with a fried egg on top and a side of prawn crackers.
Gado-Gado
Gado-Gado is a vegetarian Indonesian salad that consists of steamed vegetables such as spinach, bean sprouts, and cabbage, served with a peanut sauce dressing. In Bali, it is often served with boiled eggs and fried tofu.
Balinese Cuisine
Balinese cuisine is known for its rich and spicy flavors, and it is heavily influenced by Indonesian cuisine. Here are some must-try Balinese dishes in Bali:
Babi Guling
Babi Guling is a Balinese dish that consists of spit-roasted suckling pig that is stuffed with spices, such as turmeric, garlic, and ginger. It is usually served with rice, vegetables, and a spicy sambal sauce.
Bebek Betutu
Bebek Betutu is a traditional Balinese dish that consists of steamed or roasted duck that is marinated in a blend of spices, including turmeric, galangal, and lemongrass. It is usually served with rice and vegetables.
Lawar
Lawar is a traditional Balinese salad that consists of minced meat, vegetables, coconut, and spices, such as turmeric and garlic. It is often served with rice and is a staple dish during Balinese ceremonies and festivals.
Fusion Cuisine
Bali is also home to many restaurants that offer fusion cuisine, which combines traditional Balinese ingredients with modern cooking techniques. Here are two must-try fusion restaurants in Bali:
Locavore
Locavore is a modern Balinese restaurant that focuses on using locally sourced and sustainable ingredients to create innovative dishes. The menu changes regularly based on the availability of ingredients, but some popular dishes include slow-cooked duck leg and grilled octopus with Balinese spices.
Merah Putih
Merah Putih is another popular fusion restaurant in Bali that combines traditional Indonesian ingredients with modern cooking techniques. The menu features a variety of dishes, including slow-cooked beef short ribs and grilled fish with Balinese spices.
Seafood
Bali is known for its fresh seafood, and there are many restaurants that offer delicious seafood dishes. Here are two must-try seafood restaurants in Bali:
Jimbaran Seafood
Jimbaran Seafood is a popular seafood restaurant located on the beach in Jimbaran. The restaurant offers a variety of fresh seafood dishes, including grilled fish, prawns, and squid. The seafood is cooked over an open flame and served with rice and vegetables.
Menega Cafe
Menega Cafe is another popular seafood restaurant located in Jimbaran. The restaurant has a beautiful oceanfront setting and offers a variety of fresh seafood dishes, including grilled fish and prawns. The seafood is cooked over charcoal and served with rice and vegetables.
Vegetarian and Vegan
Bali is also a great destination for vegetarians and vegans, with many restaurants offering plant-based options. Here are two must-try vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Bali:
Sayuri Healing Food
Sayuri Healing Food is a popular vegetarian and vegan restaurant located in Ubud. The menu features a variety of healthy and organic dishes, including raw vegan sushi and zucchini spaghetti with cashew cheese.
Sage Bali
Sage Bali is another popular vegetarian and vegan restaurant located in Ubud. The menu features a variety of plant-based dishes, including vegan burgers and raw vegan cheesecake.
Street Food
If you’re looking for a more casual dining experience, Bali has a variety of street food options that are both delicious and affordable. Here are three must-try street food dishes in Bali:
Martabak
Martabak is a popular Indonesian street food that consists of a thick pancake filled with meat, eggs, and vegetables. In Bali, you can find sweet and savory versions of martabak.
Pisang Goreng
Pisang Goreng is a popular Indonesian snack that consists of deep-fried bananas. In Bali, it is often served with a sweet dipping sauce made from palm sugar.
Es Campur
Es Campur is a traditional Indonesian dessert that consists of shaved ice, sweetened condensed milk, and a variety of toppings such as fruit, jelly, and beans.
Conclusion
Bali is a food lover’s paradise, with a wide variety of dishes that are influenced by Indonesian, Chinese, Indian, and European cuisine. From traditional Balinese dishes to modern fusion cuisine, Bali has something for everyone. Be sure to try some of the must-try dishes and restaurants that we’ve highlighted in this article, and don’t be afraid to explore the street food scene as well!
FAQs
What is Babi Guling?
Babi Guling is a Balinese dish that consists of spit-roasted suckling pig that is stuffed with spices, such as turmeric, garlic, and ginger.
What is Nasi Campur?
Nasi Campur is a traditional Indonesian dish that consists of rice served with a variety of side dishes such as vegetables, meats, and eggs.
What is Es Campur?
Es Campur is a traditional Indonesian dessert that consists of shaved ice, sweetened condensed milk, and a variety of toppings such as fruit, jelly, and beans.
What is Satay?
Satay is a popular Indonesian dish that consists of skewered and grilled meat served with a spicy
