Food is part of rich and vibrant culture of Bali. If you ever have the honour of being invited to a Balinese friends home for dinner you are blessed. Failing that you are still sure to get a warm welcome in any Warung that you visit. While technically Sate Ayam and Nasi Goreng are not originally Balinese they are very popular , on most menus and they are waiting to tantalise your taste buds.
1. Nasi Goreng
Nasi Goreng is virtually available on almost every menu in Bali. It’s my go to breakfast to set me up for the day or after a late night. It’s normally leftover rice that’s been fried in some cooking oil with some garlic, fresh chilli’s, shallots, a touch of soy sauce and a hint of tamarind. Chicken or prawns can be added. A beautifully fried egg is usually placed on top. A few prawn crackers usually added as a garnish on the side. You can also mix it up by swapping the rice for noodles, equally as tasty and filling, this is called Mie Goreng. My favourite place to eat this in Ubud is Warung Boga Sari and for post dive lunch it’s a must have at Warung Made at Ocean Tree Dive in Amed. When I am feeling home sick for Bali, I try my best to make it, even though it looks similar, it’s just not the same. The magic of Bali is missing….
2. Babi Guling
Babi Guling or Sucking Pig. A wonderful treat for any party or special occasion. There is a very special art to the preparation of this dish. Its available almost everywhere on Bali, its cooked to perfection with the best crackling your taste buds can handle. My favourite place for Babi Guling is Ibu Oka in Ubud. In normal times get there early, you can order a selection of Babi Guling and some of the local sausages. (One of them is a blood sausage; a bit like Black Pudding in the UK, don’t let that put you off its super tasty!). You can also order pre order Babi Guling for an outdoor event or birthday party at your villa. Ask in your local Warung, they can usually arrange for you.
3. Satay Ayam
Chicken Satay, a tasty snack to keep you going during the day, as a starter or indeed as an accompaniment to some Bintang. Styles vary from minced chicken or other meat/fish rolled onto a skewer, usually cooked over charcoal. The chunky peanut dip is a must. It’s a light snack or you can go all out with a selection of different meats. If you are looking at street vendors tasty treats after a walk in Monkey Forest or after a night out, make sure you ask for the satay ready to come off the grill. It will be piping hot, fresh and full of flavour- Don’t forget your peanut sauce though.. In Ubud try Warung Pondok Madu, if you get to Gili Trawangan, try Chappies Bar..
4. Sambal Matah
This is Bali’s own sambal. To say its special is an understatement, it’s the perfect accompaniment for almost every dish (I draw the line at breakfast cereal and ice cream). There are over 300 different Sambal Variations across Indonesia. Sambal Matah is unique with the depth of flavour and a little heat from the chilli. This is one dish I would dearly love to master. The main ingredients are finely chopped raw shallots, garlic, chilli, lemongrass, salt, sugar and some shrimp paste. It’s all lovingly mixed with some hot oil and served fresh. Its seriously moreish, and once you have tried this you will want to know where it has been all your life.
5. Ayam Betutu
This is height of luxury accommodation, part of The Luxe Nomad offerings. Right on the beach in vibrant and bustling Canggu. This is bespoke villa living at its finest. Peace and privacy yet Canggu is on your doorstep. Marka the Villa Manager and his professional staff will deliver the highest level of Villa living you can ever imagine. 6 ensuite master bedrooms, with your very own chef. perfect for the big family get away. The Villa boasts of a 20 metre infinity pool overlooking the sea, what more could you ask for? Even in the current climate, the staff adhere to all health and safety protocols with enhanced cleaning though out the villa for the entire length of your stay.
There are so many amazing dishes for you try, to suit every palate, vegetarian, vegan, everything. Rest assured it’s all made with the finest ingredients Bali has to offer, and the most important ingredient, the magic of Bali.
Why not try a Balinese cookery course on the island.