WHEN exploring the vibrant culinary landscape of Bali, one dish that stands out as a true representation of the island’s rich culture and diverse flavors is Balinese Mixed Rice or Nasi Campur Bali. This humble yet delicious meal is a perfect blend of textures, colors, and tastes, offering an authentic taste of the island’s food heritage.
Served variably with sweet-spicy fried tempeh, satay, shredded chicken, and assorted fresh vegetables topped with grated coconut sauce, Balinese mixed rice is more than just a meal – it’s an experience.
A Symphony of Flavors and Textures
The magic of Balinese mixed rice lies in its combination of various side dishes that make each bite a different adventure. Let’s take a closer look at the key components that make this dish truly special:
1. Sweet-Spicy Fried Tempeh
Tempeh, a protein-rich ingredient made from fermented soybeans, is a staple in Indonesian cuisine. In this dish, it’s fried until golden brown and coated with a tantalizing sweet-spicy sauce made from chili, garlic, and palm sugar. The result? A crispy and flavorful bite with a balance of sweetness and heat that complements the other elements on the plate. The crunch of the tempeh adds a delightful texture, making it a standout component of the mixed rice.
2. Shredded Chicken (Ayam Suwir)
The shredded chicken in Balinese mixed rice is often marinated with traditional spices like turmeric, garlic, coriander, and lemongrass, giving it a deep, aromatic flavor. It’s slow-cooked to perfection, then finely shredded to create tender, juicy pieces that melt in your mouth. The chicken is a savory counterpart to the sweet-spicy tempeh, adding a touch of warmth and comfort to the dish. It’s typically seasoned with Balinese bumbu (spice paste), which enhances the depth of flavor in every bite.
3. Fresh Vegetables with Grated Coconut Sauce (Urab)
A refreshing and healthy addition to the mixed rice, the fresh vegetables in urab are typically a mix of blanched green beans, spinach, or other local greens. These vegetables are tossed in a fragrant grated coconut sauce made with a blend of garlic, shallots, lime leaves, and a touch of chili. The sauce adds a light, creamy texture while keeping the dish fresh and vibrant. The combination of crunchy greens with the richness of coconut creates a harmonious balance of flavors that brightens the entire plate.
A Must-Try
There are a number of reasons why you should try or taste this Balinese mixed rice:
1. A Complete Culinary Experience
Balinese mixed rice offers an immersive culinary experience where every element of the dish is thoughtfully prepared and packed with flavor. Whether you’re biting into the sweet-spicy fried tempeh, savoring the tender shredded chicken, or enjoying the fresh crunch of vegetables with coconut, each part of the meal comes together to create a symphony of taste.
This is the kind of dish where no bite is the same, and that’s what makes it so captivating.
2. A True Taste of Bali
For visitors looking to explore Bali’s authentic cuisine, mixed rice is a must-try. It’s a dish that locals eat daily and can be found in every corner of the island, from humble street stalls to high-end restaurants. The dish reflects the heart of Balinese cooking, which emphasizes fresh ingredients, bold spices, and a careful balance of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors.
Eating Balinese mixed rice is like taking a culinary journey through the island’s culture and traditions.
3. Nutritious and Satisfying
Beyond its irresistible flavors, Balinese mixed rice is also a balanced and nutritious meal. It contains a mix of proteins (from the tempeh and chicken), fiber (from the vegetables), and healthy fats (from the grated coconut). This makes it a satisfying meal that not only pleases your taste buds but also fuels your body.
The combination of plant-based and animal-based ingredients makes it a versatile dish that appeals to various dietary preferences.
4. A Feast for the Eyes
Not only does Balinese mixed rice taste incredible, but it’s also a feast for the eyes. The vibrant colors of the fried tempeh, golden-brown chicken, and bright green vegetables create a visually appealing dish that’s perfect for those who love to snap photos of their meals.
The presentation of the dish is often as beautiful as it is delicious, with each component arranged neatly around a mound of fragrant rice.
Where to Try Balinese Mixed Rice
Balinese mixed rice can be found in many places across the island, from local warungs (small eateries) to upscale restaurants. Some of the best places to try this dish include:
Warung Ibu Oka in Ubud – Famous for its traditional Balinese dishes, this warung serves up some of the most flavorful mixed rice with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.
Nasi Ayam Kedewatan – A local favorite in Bali, known for its rich and aromatic shredded chicken paired with mixed rice.
Bebek Bengil in Ubud – While famous for its crispy duck, this restaurant also offers delicious Balinese mixed rice dishes that are perfect for experiencing a variety of flavors.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a dish that embodies the essence of Balinese cuisine, Balinese mixed rice with sweet-spicy fried tempeh, shredded chicken, satay and fresh vegetables with grated coconut sauce is a must-try. Its complex yet harmonious flavors, combined with the visual appeal and nutritional balance, make it a dish that not only satisfies your hunger but also your curiosity about Balinese food culture.
Be sure to add this vibrant meal to your Bali food bucket list, and let your taste buds revel inhe delightful flavors of the island.
