List of Top 20 Foods to Try in Bali!
When visiting Bali, your journey isn’t complete without indulging in its rich and vibrant culinary scene. The island offers a unique blend of traditional Balinese flavors infused with Indonesian, Chinese, and Indian influences. Whether you’re a street food lover or someone who prefers gourmet dining, this paradise has something delicious for everyone. In this blog, we explore the Top 20 Foods to Try in Bali, ensuring your taste buds experience the magic that this tropical island has to offer.
1. Nasi Goreng
Nasi Goreng, or Indonesian fried rice, is a beloved staple across the country. Balinese-style Nasi Goreng is packed with aromatic spices, vegetables, chicken, or shrimp, and topped with a fried egg. It’s simple, hearty, and flavorful—perfect for any meal of the day.
2. Babi Guling
Known as Bali’s most famous traditional dish, Babi Guling is spit-roasted suckling pig seasoned with turmeric, coriander, lemongrass, and other local spices. Served with rice, crispy skin, and vegetable sides, this dish is a must for pork lovers.
3. Bebek Betutu
Bebek Betutu is a ceremonial dish where duck is seasoned with rich herbs and spices, wrapped in banana leaves, and slow-cooked until tender. This delicacy is a deep dive into Balinese tradition and a definite inclusion in the Top 20 Foods to Try in Bali.
4. Sate Lilit
Sate Lilit is a twist on the traditional satay. Instead of skewering chunks of meat, minced fish or chicken is mixed with coconut, lime leaves, and spices, then wrapped around lemongrass sticks and grilled. The result is flavorful and juicy.
5. Lawar
Lawar is a mix of chopped meat, grated coconut, and vegetables blended with rich herbs and spices. It’s often made with pork or chicken and sometimes even includes fresh blood for authenticity. A true Balinese classic.
6. Ayam Betutu
Similar to Bebek Betutu, Ayam Betutu features chicken prepared with the same intricate method of marination and slow cooking. The tender and spicy meat is served with rice, sambal, and vegetables.
7. Nasi Campur
Nasi Campur translates to “mixed rice” and is a platter featuring rice surrounded by small portions of various meats, vegetables, peanuts, eggs, and sambal. Each bite offers a different taste and texture, making it one of the Top 20 Foods to Try in Bali.
8. Gado-Gado
A healthy and hearty vegetarian option, Gado-Gado is a salad of boiled vegetables, tofu, tempeh, and boiled eggs topped with a rich peanut sauce. It’s nutritious, filling, and full of flavor.
9. Bakso
Bakso are meatballs usually made from beef and served in a flavorful broth with noodles, tofu, and vegetables. Street vendors often sell this comforting dish, and it’s a favorite among locals.
10. Martabak
Martabak is Indonesia’s version of a stuffed pancake. It can be savory, filled with egg, meat, and spices, or sweet, filled with chocolate, cheese, and condensed milk. Either way, it’s a treat you shouldn’t miss.
11. Pisang Goreng
Pisang Goreng, or fried bananas, are a popular snack in Bali. These crispy and sweet delights can be found at street stalls and high-end restaurants alike, often served with honey, chocolate, or even ice cream.
12. Es Campur
Es Campur is a refreshing dessert made from a mixture of fruits, jelly, and sweetened condensed milk, served over shaved ice. Perfect for cooling down in Bali’s tropical climate.
13. Tempeh and Tofu Dishes
Vegetarians rejoice—Bali’s local tempeh and tofu dishes are bursting with flavor. They’re often stir-fried with sweet soy sauce, garlic, and chili for a protein-packed delight.
14. Jimbaran Grilled Seafood
Head to the beaches of Jimbaran Bay to indulge in fresh, grilled seafood. Enjoy fish, squid, prawns, and clams cooked right on the sand while watching a stunning Bali sunset.
15. Nasi Jinggo
A street food favorite, Nasi Jinggo is a small serving of rice with side dishes like fried tempeh, shredded chicken, and spicy sambal, all wrapped in banana leaves. It’s affordable, tasty, and deeply satisfying.
16. Bubur Injin
This is Bali’s take on black rice pudding, made with black glutinous rice, coconut milk, and palm sugar. It’s a dessert that’s both hearty and wholesome.
17. Rujak
Rujak is a fruit salad with a spicy tamarind dressing. It’s sweet, sour, and spicy all at once—an explosion of flavors in every bite.
18. Sambal Matah
This raw, spicy shallot and lemongrass salsa is a staple in Balinese cuisine. It accompanies many traditional dishes and adds a zesty kick to any meal.
19. Tipat Cantok
Tipat Cantok is a vegetarian-friendly dish featuring rice cakes with mixed vegetables, drenched in a rich peanut sauce. It’s another great option for health-conscious travelers.
20. Balinese Coffee and Cakes
End your culinary journey with a cup of robust Balinese coffee paired with traditional sweets like Dadar Gulung (green coconut pancakes) or Klepon (rice cakes with palm sugar filling).
Why You Should Explore These Balinese Delights
The Top 20 Foods to Try in Bali offer more than just meals—they provide a cultural experience. Each dish tells a story of tradition, community, and flavor. Whether you’re savoring street-side snacks or enjoying a beachfront dinner, Bali’s food scene is guaranteed to leave a lasting impression.
As you explore Bali’s breathtaking landscapes and spiritual energy, don’t forget to take your taste buds on an unforgettable journey too. From the spicy tang of Sambal Matah to the sweet richness of Bubur Injin, these culinary treasures are a highlight of any Balinese adventure.
🌏 Book Your Culinary Escape Today!
Let your taste buds travel as far as your feet. Prabhi Travels invites you to enjoy not just the beauty of Bali but also its rich culinary heritage. Discover your favorites from the Top 20 Foods to Try in Bali, and let your journey be filled with memories of mouth-watering dishes and unforgettable meals.
Ready to taste the best of Bali? Contact Prabhi Travels at +91 8383931561 or visit us at 919A, Kirti Shikhar Tower, District Centre, Janakpuri, New Delhi – 110058.
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