Bali is a place full of wonders that you must visit once in your life. The place is a whole feast for your senses where in almost every corner you can spot delightful sights, sounds, and most importantly, the tantalizing aromas of Balinese food. Bali is not only renowned for its scenic beauty, but also for its unique and flavorful cuisine. When it comes to Balinese food, there are plenty of food options to choose from and this might be overwhelming for first-time visitors. However, no need to worry as we are here to guide you through the must-try Balinese food experiences.
The ideal place to start your Balinese food adventure would be Jendela Bali the Panoramic Resto. Jendela Bali serves various authentic and high-quality Indonesian food, especially traditional Balinese food. At Jendela Bali, you can sample authentic Balinese food which is a very convenient way for you to explore authentic Balinese food.
Unveiling the Rich Flavors: Must-Try Balinese Food
One of the must-try categories of Balinese food is its savory delights. Here, we provide you a top 5 list of some of locals and travelers’ favorite Balinese savory delights:
1. Lawar
First off we have a dish called Lawar. Lawar is a mixture of minced meat, vegetables (usually consists of long beans and jackfruit), and grated coconut. Then, the mixture is seasoned thoroughly with rich Balinese spices. The main ingredient, meat, varies and you can choose your preferred type of meat. The varieties of meat include chicken, duck, and pork.
2. Sate Lilit
One of the varieties of Sate or Indonesian Satay is Sate Lilit (Balinese Minced Meat Satay). Sate or Indonesian Satay is a dish made from marinated and skewered meat that is grilled. Bali’s version, Sate Lilit, is different from the usual Sate. The meat for Sate Lilit is minced and mixed with grated coconut, coconut milk, and a rich blend of vegetables and Balinese spices, creating a more juicy and flavorful taste. After being mixed with the rest of the ingredients, the meat is wrapped around bamboo or lemongrass skewers. The meat also has variations which include chicken meat, beef, fish, and even pork.
3. Babi Guling
Bali is one of the few places in Indonesia where you can find pork-based food. If you are in Bali and looking for pork-based food, make sure to try the iconic Babi Guling (Roast Suckling Pig). Babi Guling is made from a whole pig stuffed with the aromatic Base Genep and slow-roasted on an open fire until the skin is crispy and the meat succulent. Originally, Babi Guling was a form of offering to the Balinese Hindu gods, with the pig served whole to represent perfection and abundant grace to the gods.
4. Ayam/Bebek Betutu
if you want a more intense flavor, try Betutu! This dish consists of a whole chicken or duck infused with aromatic herbs and spices. Once it’s stuffed, the chicken or duck is wrapped in banana leaves and placed in the bark of a banana trunk. Then, the wrapped chicken or duck is slow-cooked/steamed for 6-7 hours. This slow-cooking method makes the meat rich in flavor, juicy, and can be easily separated from the bones.
5. Jimbaran Seafood
Last on the list, we have Jimbaran Seafood. If you are looking for a grilled seafood experience, have one at Jimbaran. Jimbaran offers a wide range of seafood including clams, lobsters, shrimp, and different types of fish. The seafood here is of high-quality as only the fresh catches and flavorful marinades are used.
A Taste of Jendela Bali: Authentic Flavors with a View
Jendela Bali is a restaurant where travelers can easily find and enjoy these authentic Balinese dishes. Other than offering authentic Balinese flavors, Jendela Bali’s location allows you to feel its unique ambience and witness stunning views, making your mealtime a one-of-a-kind experience. If you’re visiting GWK, make sure to conclude your trip by dining at the best restaurant in Bali, Jendela Bali for a complete experience.
One of Jendela Bali’s best dishes is Nasi Goreng Suna Cekuh (Suna Cekuh Fried Rice). This dish is a Balinese-style fried rice, which has a unique flavor profile derived from Suna Cekuh (garlic and aromatic ginger). Aside from this dish, Sate Lilit is also available at Jendela Bali.
Why Balinese Food is a Must-Try
Balinese food involves a unique blend of spices and cooking technique that makes it special. This unique blend of spices is the Balinese spice trademark, Base Genep. Base Genep blends 15 different locally grown spices that makes it aromatic, spiceful but not spicy.
In the Balinese society, which mostly consists of Hindus, food is of great significance. Balinese food is not just for consumption, but also for religious ceremonies. Hindus in Bali often present traditional Balinese food such as Lawar and Babi Guling to the Hindu God, Ida Sang Hyang Widhi Wasa, ancestors, and supernatural powers as offerings.
Balinese food is an integral part of the overall Bali experience, so you can’t miss out on trying out Balinese food when in Bali. Balinese food reflects the way of life of its people that you can see in the selection of local ingredients, traditional cooking techniques, and presentation of food in the context of religious ceremonies. Tasting Balinese food means understanding the way of life of its people, respecting traditions, and becoming one with the soul of this island.
If you want to give Balinese food a try but feeling concerned about Balinese food being too spicy for you, don’t worry because many Balinese restaurants can cater to various levels of spiciness to suit individual palates.
Experience Authentic Balinese Food at Jendela Bali: Your Gateway to Culinary Delight
Jendela Bali the Panoramic Resto is an excellent choice for travelers seeking genuine Balinese food. At Jendela Bali, you can find authentic Balinese food made from fresh ingredients and with a 5-star presentation. As the best restaurant in Bali, Jendela Bali guarantees you the finest dining experience. Its pleasant atmosphere with live music and panoramic views makes dining at Jendela Bali an experience you will never forget.
Located within the GWK Cultural Park, Jendela Bali gives you the opportunity to explore the cultural wonders of it. The iconic symbol of Bali which houses the fourth highest statue in the world, the Garuda Wisnu Kencana statue and many other landmarks can be your next tourist destination after your fine dining at Jendela Bali.
Read also: A Flavorful Journey: Must-Try Indonesian Food for Tourists
Ready to tantalize your taste buds with authentic Balinese food? Make a reservation at Jendela Bali today and embark on a culinary journey you won’t forget! You can also inquire your table upon arrival at Jendela Bali. While you’re there, don’t miss the chance to explore the magnificent GWK Cultural Park. Jendela Bali opens daily from 9 AM to 9.30 PM and does not require a GWK entrance ticket to visit the restaurant.