11 Mouth-Watering North Bali Dishes You Have to Try

11 Mouth-Watering North Bali Dishes You Have to Try

Hey there foodies! If you’re planning a trip to Bali and haven’t explored the culinary delights of North Bali yet, you’re in for a treat. The northern part of this tropical paradise isn’t just about stunning beaches and serene landscapes; it’s also a haven for food lovers. Let’s dive into some of the most tantalizing dishes you absolutely must try when you find yourself in North Bali.

Exploring North Bali’s Culinary Gems

1. Babi Guling

When in Bali, experiencing a traditional suckling pig roast is a must-do. Babi Guling is the epitome of Balinese culinary expertise—a whole pig seasoned with turmeric, lemongrass, and other local spices, then slow-roasted to crispy perfection over an open fire. The result? Juicy, flavorful meat with crackling skin that’s simply irresistible.

2. Sate Lilit

A uniquely Balinese take on satay, Sate Lilit is made from minced meat (usually fish, chicken, or pork) mixed with grated coconut, coconut milk, lime leaves, and a blend of spices. The mixture is then wrapped around bamboo sticks or lemongrass stems and grilled to smoky goodness. It’s served with a side of fiery sambal for that extra kick.

3. Lawar

Another Balinese classic, Lawar is a traditional minced meat salad mixed with grated coconut, rich herbs, and spices. It’s often made with either pork or chicken and offers a burst of flavors that showcase Bali’s vibrant culinary heritage. Don’t miss out on this savory dish when you’re in North Bali.

4. Bebek Betutu

Prepare your taste buds for Bebek Betutu, a slow-cooked duck dish that’s been marinated in a rich blend of turmeric, ginger, galangal, garlic, and shallots. The duck is wrapped in banana leaves and then roasted or steamed for hours until the meat is incredibly tender and infused with aromatic spices. It’s a dish that embodies the essence of Balinese comfort food.

5. Nasi Campur

For a taste of a little bit of everything, try Nasi Campur, which translates to “mixed rice.” It typically consists of a serving of rice accompanied by small portions of various dishes such as grilled meats, vegetables, peanuts, eggs, and crispy bits like sate lilit or babi guling. It’s a flavorful and satisfying meal that allows you to sample different flavors in one sitting.

6. Jaje Laklak

Sweet tooths, rejoice! Jaje Laklak is a popular Balinese dessert made from rice flour and coconut milk batter, then cooked on a special clay pan with round indentations. Once cooked, they’re served with palm sugar syrup and grated coconut. These green-colored pancakes have a delightful chewy texture and are a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

7. Ayam Betutu

Similar to Bebek Betutu but with chicken instead, Ayam Betutu is a flavorful dish where the chicken is marinated and slow-cooked in a similar spice paste. The result is tender, aromatic chicken that’s bursting with flavors from the complex blend of spices used in its preparation.

8. Tum

Tum refers to various dishes where minced meat or fish is mixed with spices, coconut, and sometimes vegetables, then wrapped in banana leaves and steamed. The result is a fragrant and moist dish that’s packed with flavor. It’s a perfect example of how Balinese cuisine makes use of local ingredients and traditional cooking methods.

9. Bubur Sumsum

If you’re craving something sweet and comforting, look no further than Bubur Sumsum, a Balinese rice flour porridge cooked in coconut milk and sweetened with palm sugar. It’s often topped with toasted coconut flakes and sometimes served with banana or other fruits. It’s a soothing dessert that’s perfect after a spicy Balinese meal.

10. Tahu and Tempe

Bali’s version of tofu (Tahu) and fermented soybean cake (Tempe) offers a delightful vegetarian option. Both are marinated in spices and either fried or grilled to perfection. They’re often served with sambal for a spicy kick or as part of a larger meal like Nasi Campur.