The Best Local Dishes To Try In Bali

Waquar Habib

Nasi Goreng

This iconic Indonesian fried rice dish from Bali is made with chicken or prawns, mixed vegetables, and a fried egg. The rice is seasoned with sweet soy sauce, shrimp paste, and spices, giving it a unique sweet and savoury flavour. It's often served with pickled vegetables and prawn crackers.

A look at the delicious Nasi Goreng | Shutterstock

Mie Goreng

Like Nasi Goreng, Mie Goreng is a popular Indonesian dish with stir-fried noodles, chicken or prawns, vegetables, and sweet soy sauce. It's often garnished with a fried egg, crispy shallots, and crackers, known for its rich, savoury taste and slightly sweet undertones.

A traditional serving of Indonesian Mie Goreng | Shutterstock

Babi Guling

Babi Guling is a traditional Balinese dish of spit-roasted suckling pig, marinated with turmeric, coriander, lemongrass, and other spices. It's slowly roasted over an open fire, producing crispy skin and tender, juicy meat. It's often served with rice, vegetables, and a spicy sambal sauce.

A tabletop shot of Babi Guling served with rice | Shutterstock

Sate Lilit

Sate Lilit is a unique version of satay, made from minced meat (often fish or chicken), grated coconut, coconut milk, lime leaves, and various spices. The mixture is grilled around bamboo sticks, resulting in a flavourful and aromatic dish perfect as an appetiser or main course.

A serving of delicious Sate Lilit | Shutterstock

Lawar

Lawar is a traditional Balinese salad made with vegetables, grated coconut, and minced meat, often seasoned with herbs and spices. Variations include jackfruit or green beans. It is a dish served during ceremonies, offering a balance of flavours and textures.

Lawar from Indonesia | Shutterstock

Betutu

Betutu is a famous Balinese dish of roasted chicken or duck, marinated in a flavourful spice paste, wrapped in banana leaves, and slow-cooked until tender. It is commonly served with rice and vegetables and is significant in Balinese culture and tradition.

Traditional Betutu | Shutterstock

Pepes Ikan

This dish involves marinated fish wrapped in banana leaves, steamed or grilled. The banana leaves keep the fish moist and infuse it with aromatic flavours. Pepes Ikan is often served with rice and vegetables.

Pepes Ikan from Indonesia | Shutterstock

Urab

Urab, a popular choice among health-conscious diners, is a Balinese salad made from mixed vegetables, grated coconut, and a spicy dressing. It is a refreshing and healthy side dish that complements many main courses.

A serving of the traditional Urab | Shutterstock

Bubur Mangguh

This traditional Balinese porridge is made from rice, coconut milk, and a blend of spices. It's often served with shredded chicken and vegetables. Bubur Mangguh is typically enjoyed for breakfast or as a light meal, known for its creamy texture and rich flavour.

A look at the Balinese dish of Bubur Mangguh | monica_ariesty/instagram

Be Pasih

Be Pasih is a Balinese fish curry made with fresh fish, coconut milk, and spices. The curry is rich, creamy, and full of flavour, and it is often served with rice. This dish showcases Balinese cuisine's best with its fresh ingredients and aromatic spices.

A view of Be Pasih served on a plate | herby.prso/instagram

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