Top Three Popular Dishes to Savour when You’re in Ubud

Ubud, Bali in Indonesia is known for its friendly people, laid-back environment and tasty food. Here are top three popular dishes for you to try when you’re on the island:

Sate Lilit

There is nothing like biting into a tasty Sate Lilit on a hot Balinese day. Sate lilit has a spicy, savoury and sweet taste that most visitors and locals enjoy. It is different than the common satay that most people in Indonesia are used to. Instead of using bamboo skewers, lemongrass stalks are being used to produce a more fragrant aroma. The meat used to make Sate Lilit may vary. Some people prefer chicken, beef, fish meat or pork.

To add flavour, a mixture of various spices such as grated coconut, kencur, onion and pepper are used.

Photo Credit: The Official Website of Indonesia Tourism

Betutu

This Balinese dish comes in two versions – the chicken based Ayam Betutu and the traditional duck version that is known as Bebek Betutu. Both dishes are marinated in rich aromatic spices and herbs before they are steamed or grilled.   A spicier version is available using extra-spicy sauce made from onion slices mixed with red chili peppers and coconut oil.  Most people give it a two thumbs up.

Photo Credit: The Official Website of Indonesia Tourism (Image by putritaruno)

Babi Guling

Pork fans might drool over this dish before they even get a chance to eat it. Babi Guling is the Indonesian version of a roast suckling pig. Before spit roasting it over an open fire, the Balinese will usually rub the pig’s skin with turmeric, and the animal is stuffed with a spice mixture, which includes turmeric, coriander, lemongrass, shallots, galangal, chili, shrimp paste and garlic. Its exquisite taste has made it very popular and sought by tourists from all over the world.

Photo Credit: Babi Guling Odah Sanur’s Facebook page