14 Must-Try Balinese Dishes: A Culinary Guide Journey in Bali
Bali: A Culinary Paradise
Bali is a true paradise for food lovers. Every dish on this island bursts with flavors and traditions. To fully enjoy the culinary experience, there’s nothing better than the WARUNGS – small local restaurants offering the best Balinese specialties. For each dish, I’ll recommend a great spot to try it, mainly in Ubud, a must-visit destination in Bali.
1. Nasi Campur
Nasi Campur is an iconic dish featuring rice served with a variety of side dishes: sautéed vegetables, tempeh, boiled egg, spiced chicken, and sometimes satay. Each warung has its own version, so be sure to try it multiple times!
Where to try it?
📍 In Da Compound Warung, Ubud - A must-visit to enjoy authentic Balinese Nasi Campur.
2. Mie Goreng
Mie Goreng is a dish of stir-fried noodles seasoned with soy sauce, served with vegetables, chicken, or shrimp, and often topped with a fried egg. A classic Indonesian favorite for a quick and tasty meal.
Where to try it?
📍 Sun Sun Warung, Ubud – Known for its generous and flavorful Mie Goreng.
3. Sate Lilit
Sate Lilit are Balinese skewers made from minced meat or fish mixed with coconut and spices, wrapped around a lemongrass stick. Unique and absolutely delicious!
Where to try it?
📍 Warung Makan Bu Rus, Ubud – Famous for its authentic and flavorful Sate Lilit.
4. Rujak Bulung
Rujak Bulung is a seaweed salad seasoned with chili, palm sugar, and tamarind juice. It’s a sweet, tangy, and spicy combination, perfect for adventurous foodies.
Where to try it?
📍 Warung Rujak Glogor, Ubud – The perfect spot to sample authentic Rujak Bulung.
5. Gado-Gado
Gado-Gado is a salad of cooked vegetables, tempeh, and tofu, topped with a creamy peanut sauce. It’s a light yet satisfying option for lunch.
Where to try it?
📍 In Da Compound Warung, Ubud – Renowned for its rich and creamy peanut sauce.
6. Bebek Betutu
Bebek Betutu is duck stuffed with Balinese spices, wrapped in banana leaves, and slow-cooked for a tender and aromatic result. A true delight for meat lovers.
Where to try it?
📍 Bebek Tepi Sawah, Ubud – A renowned spot for the best Bebek Betutu.
7. Tempeh
Made from fermented soybeans, Tempeh is a versatile ingredient in Balinese cuisine. Fried or sautéed with spices, it pairs wonderfully with many dishes.
Where to try it?
📍 Warung Tradisi, Ubud – They serve fresh, flavorful Tempeh as part of modern dishes.
8. Sambal Matah
Sambal Matah is a spicy Balinese condiment made with shallots, chilies, lemongrass, and lime juice. It’s perfect for adding a fiery kick to meats and fish.
Where to try it?
📍 Adi Warung, Ubud - Their crispy duck served with Sambal Matah is a must-try.
9. Ayam Betutu
A chicken version of Bebek Betutu, Ayam Betutu features chicken marinated in spices, wrapped in banana leaves, and slow-cooked for tender perfection.
Where to try it?
📍 Nasi Ayam Kedewatan Ibu Mangku, Ubud (Pusat) – Famous for its tender Ayam Betutu.
10. Tum Ayam
Tum Ayam is a dish of minced chicken mixed with spices, wrapped in banana leaves, and steamed. It’s a fragrant and tender classic.
Where to try it?
📍 Warung Pulau Kelapa Indonesian Cuisine – Known for its authentic Tum Ayam.
11. Ikan Pepes
Ikan Pepes is fish marinated in coconut milk and spices, then wrapped in banana leaves and steamed. It’s aromatic and tender.
Where to try it?
📍 Warung Amsha, Amed – A must for seafood lovers.
12. Luwak Coffee
Luwak Coffee, made from beans digested by civets, offers a smooth and low-acid flavor.
Where to try it?
📍Satria Coffee Plantation, Ubud – A fascinating and tasty visit.
13. Brem and Arak
Brem is a sweet rice wine, while Arak is a traditional Balinese liquor often used in local festivities.
Where to try it?
📍 Arak Bar, Seminyak – Perfect for trying unique Arak-based cocktails.
14. Lak Lak
The Lak Lak are small, thick pancakes made from rice flour, served with melted palm sugar and grated coconut. A simple yet delicious dessert that’s quintessentially Balinese!
Where to try it?
📍 Warung Amsha, Amed – A must-visit, not for Lak Lak in Ubud this time, but in Amed, where these are absolutely irresistible.
Conclusion: Ready to indulge?
Bali is a gastronomic paradise. By visiting these warungs and exploring its flavors, you’ll immerse yourself in the island’s unique culture. Share your discoveries with us! 😊
FAQs
Are Balinese dishes spicy?
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Not necessarily! Many dishes like Nasi Campur or Mie Goreng are moderately spiced. If you prefer more heat, condiments like Sambal Matah allow you to adjust the spiciness to your taste.
Are there vegetarian options in Balinese cuisine?
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Absolutely! Balinese cuisine offers vegetarian dishes like Gado-Gado (a salad with peanut sauce) or sautéed Tempeh. Many warungs also provide vegan alternatives, making it easy to enjoy plant-based meals.
Where can I take a Balinese cooking class to learn these dishes?
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Ubud is renowned for its cooking classes. Locations like Paon Bali Cooking Class and Lobong Culinary Experience offer interactive workshops where you can learn to prepare specialties such as Sate Lilit or Tum Ayam.
Are Balinese warungs safe for tourists?
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Yes, local warungs are generally safe and serve fresh food. To ensure the best experience, choose establishments with good reputations or those frequented by locals and other tourists.
