Bali is recognized for its beautiful landscapes, cultural traditions, and of course, its delicious cuisine. The island has a unique charm that draws in tourists from all over the world, and its food is a big part of it.

Balinese cuisine is diverse, with a blend of flavors and spices that reflect the island’s history and cultural influences. From the infamous Babi Guling to the delectable Nasi Campur, Bali offers a range of dishes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re looking for street food, fine dining, or local warungs, Bali has something to satisfy your cravings. 

Here we’ve compiled a list of 10 must-try dishes that will tantalize your taste buds and give you a true taste of Bali. 

#1 Babi Guling

Babi Guling is one of the most famous and iconic dishes of Bali. It is a traditional Balinese roasted pig dish that is typically served during special occasions such as weddings and ceremonies. The dish consists of a whole pig that has been seasoned with a mix of spices, including turmeric, coriander, lemongrass, and garlic. The pig is then slow-roasted over an open fire until the skin is crispy and the meat is tender and juicy.

While Babi Guling is traditionally made with pork, there are also versions that use chicken or duck as a substitute for those who do not eat pork for religious or personal reasons. Babi Guling is a must-try experience that will give you a taste of the island’s rich culinary heritage.

#2 Sate Lilit

Sate Lilit Bali is a unique variation of this dish that is particularly popular in Bali. Sate Lilit is made using a mixture of minced meat (usually chicken, beef, or fish) that is mixed with spices, grated coconut, and other seasonings. The mixture is then molded onto a skewer, typically made from bamboo sticks or lemongrass, and then grilled until cooked through. The lemongrass skewers give the dish a distinctive aroma and flavor, making it stand out from other types of sate.

#3 Lawar 

Lawar is a traditional Balinese vegetable salad typically made using a mixture of finely chopped vegetables, such as green beans, bean sprouts, grated coconut, and spices. The salad is often dressed with a mixture of minced meat or fish, which has been cooked with a blend of Balinese spices.

There are two main types of Lawar in Bali: red and white. The red Lawar is made using cooked meat or blood, which gives it its distinct color. The white Lawar, on the other hand, is made using a mix of vegetables and coconut, without the addition of meat or blood.

#4 Nasi Campur

“Nasi Campur” literally means “mixed rice”, and it refers to a dish that is typically composed of a serving of steamed rice, accompanied by various small portions of other dishes. Some common side dishes that are often included in Nasi Campur are satay, fried chicken, stir-fried vegetables, fried Tofu, and Tempe. Nasi Campur is often served with a side of sambal (a spicy chili paste), and sometimes with crackers or other crispy snacks. It is a popular lunch or dinner option in Bali, and it is often served at local warungs (small restaurants or food stalls).

#5 Bebek Betutu

Bebek Betutu is a traditional Balinese dish that is known for its rich and spicy flavors. The dish is made by steaming or roasting a duck that has been marinated in a mixture of spices such as turmeric, ginger, garlic, chili, and other local herbs. Served with rice that has been cooked in coconut milk and seasoned with more spices. The dish is typically enjoyed during special occasions or ceremonies and is often served with other Balinese side dishes such as sambal, Tempe, and vegetables. 

#6 Tipat Cantok

Tipat Cantok is a tasty Balinese dish that is made from a combination of rice cakes, vegetables, and peanut sauce. The rice cakes are made by cooking glutinous rice that has been wrapped in a coconut leaf, giving them a unique texture and flavor. The vegetables that are commonly used in Tipat Cantok include bean sprouts, long beans, cucumber, and spinach, which are all cut into small pieces and mixed together. 

#7 Dadar Gulung

Dadar Gulung is a sweet Indonesian dessert that is loved by many. The name “Dadar Gulung” literally translates to “rolled pancake,” and it is made by mixing rice flour with coconut milk and pandan juice to make a thin, crepe-like batter. The batter is then cooked on a flat pan, and once it’s done, it is filled with a mixture of grated coconut and palm sugar, which gives it a sweet and slightly caramelized flavor. The pancake is then rolled up like a spring roll and served with a drizzle of coconut milk or a sprinkle of grated coconut on top. Dadar Gulung is a popular snack that can be found at street vendors, traditional markets, and restaurants.

 

#8 Pie Susu

Pie Susu Bali is a traditional Balinese pastry that is made by mixing flour, butter, and egg yolk to create a soft and crumbly crust, which is then filled with a creamy mixture of milk, sugar, and sometimes other flavors such as pandan or chocolate. The pies are then baked until golden brown, giving them a deliciously crispy texture on the outside and a smooth, creamy filling on the inside. Pie Susu Bali is a popular souvenir that tourists bring back home from Bali, and it’s not hard to see why. The combination of buttery pastry and sweet, creamy filling makes for a truly delicious and satisfying treat that’s perfect for enjoying any time of the day.

#9 Lak-Lak

Lak-Lak is a traditional sweet snack that originates from Bali, Indonesia. The snack is made by mixing rice flour, sugar, and water to create a thin batter, which is then poured onto a hot griddle and cooked until golden brown. Once cooked, the small pancakes are then topped with a sweet coconut and palm sugar sauce, which gives them their signature flavor. Lak-Lak is often served during traditional Balinese ceremonies and festivals, but it can also be found at local markets and food stalls throughout Bali. The snack is loved for its soft, chewy texture and sweet, fragrant flavor, making it a perfect snack for anyone with a sweet tooth.

#10 Sambal Matah

Sambal Matah is a traditional Indonesian condiment that originated in Bali. The condiment is made by mixing chopped raw shallots, chili peppers, lemongrass, and lime juice, which creates a fragrant and spicy flavor profile. The mixture is often served alongside grilled meat, fish, or vegetables, adding a burst of flavor to the dish. Sambal Matah is a staple in Balinese cuisine and can be found at local markets and restaurants throughout the island. The condiment is loved for its unique blend of flavors and is a must-try for anyone visiting Bali who wants to experience the island’s rich culinary culture.

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Balinese food is a culinary experience that is sure to delight your taste buds. Whether you are trying it for the first time or are a seasoned fan. Balinese food is a delicious and unforgettable part of the island’s culture that should not be missed.