Bali, the “Island of the Gods,” is famed not just for its beautiful beaches and vibrant culture but also for its tantalizing street food. For food lovers, Bali offers a unique culinary journey that can satisfy any palate. From savory snacks to sweet treats, the street food scene in Bali is a fusion of flavors influenced by Indonesian, Chinese, and Indian cuisines.
Nasi Goreng
No trip to Bali is complete without trying its unofficial national dish, Nasi Goreng. This Indonesian fried rice is typically made with a mix of vegetables, meat or seafood, and a touch of sweet soy sauce (kecap manis). Often topped with a fried egg and served with pickles and prawn crackers, Nasi Goreng is the ultimate comfort food that’s found at almost every street food stall.
Satay (Sate)
Satay, or Sate in Indonesian, consists of skewered and grilled meat, typically chicken, beef, or pork. The meat is marinated in turmeric, giving it a distinctive yellow color before being grilled to perfection over charcoal. It is usually served with a rich peanut sauce, rice cakes (lontong), and a small salad. A must-try for any visitor!
Bakso
Bakso is a popular Indonesian meatball soup that can be enjoyed at any time of day. The meatballs are usually made from a mixture of beef surimi and tapioca, giving them a unique and bouncy texture. Served in a flavorful broth with noodles, tofu, and vegetables, Bakso is often garnished with fried onions and celery. Street vendors serve it hot, making it an ideal dish for a quick and satisfying meal.
Babi Guling
Babi Guling, or roasted suckling pig, is a must-try for pork lovers. This dish involves roasting a whole pig that’s been marinated in a mix of traditional spices and herbs. The crispy skin and tender, juicy meat are typically served with rice, lawar (a mix of vegetables, grated coconut, and minced meat), and sambal. It’s not commonly found at every street corner but worth seeking out at specialized vendors and markets.
Gado-Gado
Gado-Gado is a versatile Indonesian salad that features a mix of vegetables, tofu, and hard-boiled eggs, all drizzled with a rich peanut sauce. Perfect for vegetarians, this dish is refreshing yet hearty, making it an excellent choice for a light meal. You’ll find vendors preparing it fresh on-site, adding a personal touch to each serving.
Martabak
Martabak is a sweet or savory stuffed pancake popular in Bali. The savory version, Martabak Telur, is filled with minced meat, vegetables, and eggs, while the sweet version, Martabak Manis, can be stuffed with anything from chocolate to cheese. Both are cooked on a large flat grill until golden brown and crispy. This dish is especially popular for an evening snack or dessert.
Bubur Injin
Bubur Injin, or black rice pudding, is a traditional Balinese dessert made from black glutinous rice, coconut milk, and palm sugar. The rice is cooked until soft and creamy, then topped with a drizzle of coconut milk. This sweet treat is often enjoyed as breakfast, dessert, or even an afternoon snack.
Where to Find Street Food in Bali
While street food can be found all over Bali, certain areas are renowned for their culinary offerings. Seminyak and Canggu feature numerous food stalls and night markets. Ubud Market is famous for its fresh produce and local snacks, while Jimbaran Fish Market offers the freshest seafood. Denpasar’s Jalan Teuku Umar is another hotspot for a diverse range of street foods.
Tips for Enjoying Street Food Safely
When indulging in Bali’s street food, it’s wise to take some precautions to ensure a delightful and safe experience:
- Look for busy stalls – High turnover of food means fresher ingredients.
- Watch food preparation – Observing how your food is prepared can give you an idea of cleanliness.
- Stay hydrated – Carry bottled water and stay hydrated, especially when trying spicy foods.
- Use hand sanitizer – Ensure you have clean hands before eating.
Bali’s street food offers an immersive culinary experience that’s not to be missed. Each bite is a journey into the heart of Balinese culture, where tradition meets taste in the most delightful way possible. Happy eating!