Month: January 2025

Best Indonesian Street Food that are a Must Try

Post author By Kelly Williams
Post date January 13, 2025
No Comments on Best Indonesian Street Food that are a Must Try

Best Indonesian Street Food that are a Must Try

Home » Archives for January 2025

Best Indonesian Street Food that are a Must Try

From savory delights to sweet treats, Indonesian street food offers a culinary adventure like no other.

In Bali’s lively markets, the streets are full of irresistible aromas as vendors prepare traditional dishes. Amidst this sea of delectable options, some dishes stand out and leave the taste buds craving for more.

Let’s explore these delicious street food options from Indonesia.

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1. Nasi Goreng

Source: sataysate

Main Ingredients: Rice, garlic, shallots, kecap manis (sweet soy), egg, vegetables, chicken and/or shrimp.
Average Price: IDR 20,000 – 40,000

Nasi Goreng or Indonesian fried rice is a common local dish made with sweet soy sauce that sweetens and colors the rice.

Smoky and slightly sweet, Nasi Goreng is topped with a perfectly fried egg that oozes the yolk’s richness into every bite. It is also often served with crunchy prawn crackers and a side of sambal.

Street vendors across Ubud whip up Nasi Goreng with sizzling sounds of rice hitting the wok and a sweet aroma all around.

2. Satay

Source: ozzy_kunnu

Main Ingredients: Meat (chicken, beef, pork or turtle), peanut sauce
Average Price: IDR 25,000 – 100,000 per serving (prices primarily depend on the type of meat used)

Satay or sate is a traditional meat dish from Java, Indonesia made with grilled skewered meat.

Meat is first blended in a mixture of spices, and then grilled over charcoal until smoky and tender. The dish is then served with a creamy peanut sauce that’s slightly sweet and nutty in flavour.

In Ubud, you can find satay being cooked on tiny, portable grills at local Warungs with captivating a sight of skewers sizzling over glowing embers.

3. Babi Guling

Source: bumbubalirestaurant

Main Ingredients: Pork, turmeric, ginger, lemongrass, garlic, chili.
Average Price: IDR 20,000 – 70,000

A Balinese specialty, Babi Guling is a total feast and often dubbed the king of Indonesian street food.

It involves a pig stuffed with a fragrant mix of spices which is slow-roasted until the skin is crispy, while the meat remains juicy. This dish is then served with rice, spicy vegetables, and a drizzle of rich gravy.

In Ubud, many local warungs (small eateries) offer their own version of Babi Guling, each boasting unique spice blends. This Indonesian street food celebrates the island’s culinary heritage and is perfect for those looking to try out bold and authentic flavours.

Check Out:: Indonesia Travel Bucket List

4. Gado-Gado

Source: hettymckinnon

Main Ingredients: Vegetables, peanut sauce, boiled eggs, tofu, tempeh.
Average Price: IDR 50,000 – 150,000

Gado-Gado or the Mix-Mix Indonesian salad is a flavourful dish for those looking for healthy eating. Gado-Gado combines fresh, boiled vegetables like spinach and beans with slices of tofu and tempeh and brings them all together with a thick peanut sauce.

With its sweet yet tangy taste, Gado-Gado is light, delicious, and satisfying and offers a taste of Indonesia’s knack for blending simple ingredients into something extraordinary

5. Bakso

Source: elinagives

Main Ingredients: Beef or chicken meatballs, broth, noodles, celery, shallots
Average Price: IDR 8,000 – 15,000

Bakso, or Indonesian meatball soup, is a warm, healthy comfort food for many Indonesians. It is made with soft meatballs and a flavorful broth accompanied by noodles, fresh herbs, shallots, and celery.

The spice level of Bakso can be adjusted as per preference. Additionally, a dash of sambal or lime juice can bring a zesty kick to the bowl.

In Bali, vendors pushing Bakso carts around neighbourhoods is a common sight. If you’ve spent the day exploring Ubud’s beautiful rice terraces and temples, Bakso is the perfect meal to refuel and unwind.

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6. Martabak

Source: Inna Safa

Main Ingredients: Flour, eggs, and filling which varies in ingredients.
Average Price: IDR 30,000 – 50,000 (depending on size and filling)

Martabak is a common snack, breakfast, and dessert in Indonesia. It comes in two irresistible forms: savory and sweet.

The savory version (martabak telur) is filled with minced meat, eggs, and spices.
The sweet version (martabak manis) is made with chocolate and/or bananas with a thick, butter binder.

In Ubud’s night markets, Martabak vendors sell these crispy, golden pancakes or rotis with a melt-in-your-mouth filling.

7. Klepon

Source: Meggy Kadam Aryanto

Main Ingredients: Glutinous rice flour, palm sugar, grated coconut, pandan and suji leaves.
Average Price: IDR 25,000 – 75,000

Klepon is a delightful, bite-sized cake-like treat with green color and a chewy texture.

Klepon is round in shape and filled with liquid palm sugar, which bursts out when you take a bite. On the outside, it is covered in grated coconut, which balances the strong sweet taste.

You can easily find Klepon sold in small packets at street markets in Ubud. It is a traditional dish mentioned in historical manuscripts from over a hundred years ago and is also often used in traditional ceremonies.

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8. Pisang Goreng

Source: Saveurs Secretes

Main Ingredients: Bananas, flour, sugar, oil, grated cheese or chocolate (optional).
Average Price: IDR 5,000 – 10,000 per piece

Pisang goreng is a simple yet delectable snack sold all across South East Asia, and is one of the most popular Indonesian street foods. It is made by coating bananas in a thick batter and then deep-frying them until golden brown.

While pisang goreng can be eaten on its own, it is most loved with some grated cheese or chocolate drizzle on it.

9. Durian Ice Cream

Source: kitchenmisadventure

Main ingredients: Durian, milk, cream
Average Price: IDR 10,000 – 30,000

Durian is most-well known for its strong, pungent smell which has led to the fruit being banned in enclosed spaces in some countries. However, due to the thick, sweet flesh of the fruit, it is loved by many and makes for a great ice cream flavour.

Durian ice cream has a velvety texture as it blends the bold, custardy flavor of durian with cream and milk. It is the perfect way for anyone to try out Durian’s unique taste without having to deal with the odor.

You can easily find vendors in Ubud and other parts of Indonesia serving scoops of this creamy treat in cones or cups.

Check Out:: Ubud Centre – What You Need to Know Before Going

10. Siomay

Source: Nonik Yench

Main ingredients: Fish or pork, vegetables, peanut sauce, potatoes
Average Price: IDR 5,000 – 10,000

Siomay, or Indonesian dumplings, are made with mackerel fish or pork, and served alongside boiled eggs, tofu, cabbage, and potatoes, all generously slathered with a rich peanut sauce. It’s a filling street food that’s both savory and satisfying.

Siomay’s significance lies in its complex interplay of textures—from the softness of the dumplings to the crunch of the cabbage and creaminess of the peanut sauce. Vendors often prepare this dish fresh, steaming it to perfection before serving.

Indonesian street food is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors, history, and culture. Each dish tells a story, connecting you to the people and traditions of this vibrant archipelago.

Learn more about Indonesian cuisine, heritage, and more. Follow Ubud Story Walks on Instagram.

Kelly Williams

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Read what people say about Ubud Story Walks...

Ubud Story Walks is something different. It’s a fun, entertaining and refreshing way to delve into Ubud’s past. The knowledgeable guides place as much emphasis on how they tell a story as they do on what they’re sharing, which means all sorts of magical and mystifying details are revealed. I believe the best way to get to know a place is to walk its streets, which makes Ubud Story Walks one of the best ways to get to know Ubud.

Julia Winterflood

We had a fantastic time walking around the historical centre of Ubud! Even though we've been based in Bali for a few years, we'd never had an actual tour of some of Bali's most iconic landmarks and learning about the history was fascinating. Our guide was hilarious and full of information and it was a lovely and relaxing way to learn so much. The tour was early in the morning which was perfect timing as the temperature was still cool and we were able to witness the morning bustle of Ubud's famous markets. 10/10 would recommend!

Rahima Saikal

     Excellent  
     Based on 163 reviews 
    
 
 
   
 
 
        
   Vicky Ilankovan 
 2024-12-13
 
 
  A great way to get to know Ubud, past and present. Win and Kelly were fantastic tour guide: knowledgeable, friendly, and open. I’d just landed in the country and this was the best welcome to immerse myself in some of the culture and historic as well as get a bit of a lay of the land. It was great to visit historic sites as well as the museum, and here fun stories. Bonus points for traditional sweets! Many thanks to both. Would definitely recommend this walking tour
  
 
       
   LH Sim 
 2024-12-10
 
 
  Joe was our guide for the Ubud Story Walk Tour : Past To Present.  He is very professional and knowledgeable who has many interesting stories to share.  During the tour, he showed pictures related to the history for our better understanding. Besides pictures, he also showed us coins that were used in the past. Apart from being proficient in conducting the tour, he is also a very caring guide as he offered us sunscreen, mosquito repellent prior to his tour and brought us snacks and water when we had our short break during the tour.  Thank you Joe for the excellent commentary. Will definitely join the other Ubud Story Walks on my next trip to Bali.
  
 
       
   Jessica Hübner 
 2024-12-05
 
 
  Ubud story walk  past to presents was one of our favorite things to do in Ubud. Our guide Joe was super fun and very informative! Thank you Joe for the great time we had. I highly recommend this tour
  
 
       
   Andrea Slosar 
 2024-12-03
 
 
  I was on two tours and I really liked them. They are beautifully and comprehensively designed. Old black and white photos are  an interesting addition. I was especially impressed by Windari with her communication skills and knowledge of the English language and Balinese culture. I wish the whole team much success in their future business and on discovering and solving pieces of the puzzle of Balinese culture.
  
 
       
   Neeraj Goswami 
 2024-12-01
 
 
  I went on two walking tours, loved both! The guides Ira and Win shared excellent insights on Balinese culture, history and traditions - helping me understand local context, beyond the usual pics on social media.
I hope they add many more such interesting tours in the future!
  
 
       
   Vinay Kashyap 
 2024-11-26
 
 
  It's an essential part of a traveller's journey to know the history of a place he visits and my decision to choose Ubud Story walks was a good one. Joe, the guide took us through Ubud, the past to present and the walk was very informative.

Its a good initiative done by a small team and I am happy to learn the efforts that the team is putting.

Those who are coming to Ubud must consider opting for their guided tour.
  
 
       
   tamara fields 
 2024-11-26
 
 
  Enjoy a lovely morning with Ira as she expland the story of Bali, Ubud, Hinduism, the style of the houses and much more. Would recommend this walk to anyone that is interested in connected with the history and culture of bali while having someone who can answer your questions to have a deeper look into the life of the people living here.
  
 
       
   David Hodgins 
 2024-11-25
 
 
  We had a lovely and informative morning walk with Win. Her perfect pace, both physically and with information sharing , provided us with a rich understanding of Bali’s history and culture
  
 
       
   Jill Boulter 
 2024-11-22
 
 
  Great walking tour of Ubud. Ira was very knowledgable and spoke good English. Nice places to stop, little alleyways and quieter parts of Ubud. Very well looked after. Would recommend 👍.
  
 
       
   Shafiga Elshan 
 2024-11-15
 
 
  It was an amazing experience to learn more about Bali's history and culture. Our guide, Ira, was incredibly knowledgeable, positive, and caring. Thank you for such a wonderful experience!

All Places to Visit

Art in Indonesia: Heritage, Creativity, and Modern Applications

Post author By Kelly Williams
Post date January 9, 2025
No Comments on Art in Indonesia: Heritage, Creativity, and Modern Applications

Art in Indonesia: Heritage, Creativity, and Modern Applications

Home » Archives for January 2025

Art in Indonesia: Heritage, Creativity, and Modern Applications

From intricate Batik patterns to grand temple carvings, art in Indonesia reflects the nation’s rich history, vibrant culture, and strong beliefs.

Despite its ancient roots, Indonesian art continues to evolve even today, blending tradition with modernity to create a unique and timeless appeal. Discover more about Bali, its art, heritage, and must-visit art galleries with this blog.

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An Overview of Indonesia’s Artistic Heritage

Signified by bold Batik colors, intricate Wayang puppets, and delicate wood carvings, Indonesia’s local art is a testament to the centuries old heritage and creative ingenuity of the region.

To add on, there are 17,000 islands and 300 ethnic groups in the area which only amplify the artistic diversity.

A Blend of Spiritual Roots and Hinduism

Hinduism breathes life into every sculpture, painting, and dance, in Bali.

Whether it’s the Barong mask with its captivating colors and expressions, or the Legong dance with its refined, intricate movements, symbols of Balinese art are not just objects or performances, but are spiritual offerings to the Gods of the region. This is how art and devotion truly become one with Balinese Hinduism.

Keeping Traditions Alive

Despite the extensive foreigner attraction the country gets, Indonesian art and traditions have a very firm hold.

Local artisans continue to preserve ancient crafts, passing their knowledge down through generations. Thus, when you purchase a locally crafted artwork, you take home not just a piece of cloth or canvas but a slice of Indonesia’s centuries-old legacy.

Check Out: 13 Unique Excursions from Ubud You Need to Check Out

Ubud, Bali As the Artistic Heart of Indonesia

Today, Ubud is Indonesia’s creative and artistic epicenter. Its galleries, artisan workshops, and museums showcase everything from ancient traditions to contemporary creations.

Some traditional art forms that add to Bali’s allure include,

Traditional Balinese Painting: Styles like Batuan and Kamasan are intricate, meaningful, and poetic and have origins in ancient Balinese mythology. For example Kamasan depicts scenes from traditional folk stories, whereas, Batuan style of Indonesian art is attributed to artists from the Batuan region painting folklore, dreams, fantasies, and daily experiences.
Woodcarving and Stone Sculpting: From majestic temple doors to sacred statues, carved wood in Bali is all about stories and spirituality. Additionally, the dense and sturdy nature of Balinese timber further enhances the charm and intricate beauty of these carved designs.
Balinese Dance: The graceful Legong or the dramatic Barong performances are an ideal blend of theater, art, and culture.

You Might Also Like: Miguel Covarrubias: Painter, Caricaturist, and Bali

Embed: https://www.instagram.com/p/DAna8u5htx7/igsh=MW8ydDdnbG1ibmMzOQ%3D%3D&img_index=1

Tip for Tourists: Get Your Hands Dirty

Why just look when you can create? Ubud offers tourists a unique opportunity to take hands-on workshops and try Batik painting, pottery, or learn traditional dances.

Such experiences are excellent at turning leisure trips into unique learning opportunities and exciting experiences.

Explore fun activities: 15 Best Activities in Ubud [Things to Do]

Heritage with a Contemporary Twist

The Indonesian archipelago was inhabited around 2 million years ago and since then, it has remained dynamic with continuous rich and vibrant additions to it.

Today, there are sixteen UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Sites in Indonesia, and ten World Heritage Sites including six cultural heritage sites, and four natural ones.
The Intangible Cultural Heritage Sites by UNESCO include Wayang Puppet Theatre, Batik, Kris, and multiple traditional dances.

Today’s Balinese artists are redefining art in Indonesia by merging traditional techniques with bold, innovative ideas.

This includes Batik pieces reimagined as street art or modern sculptures inspired by traditional carvings.
The growth of Indonesian culture has been significantly impacted by the Western style and approach to arts and lifestyle due to colonialism and European artists in Bali.
Rattan weaved wall panels in seating areas are an excellent example of how Indonesian art, despite Western influences, has found its way into the everyday lives of people.

You Might Also Like: What is Balinese Mythology? History of Bali

Balinese Art in Daily Life

For the Balinese people, art is an inseparable part of their identity and daily existence. It is not confined to galleries or reserved for special occasions and is rather visible in everyday life.

Examples of how Balinese art seamlessly integrates into daily life include:

Delicate canang sari: Intricately arranged flower offerings, each adorned with symbolic colors and meanings, are used as offerings in daily prayers to thank the Gods for their blessings.

Vibrantly decorated kites: Beautiful, brightly colored kites are commonly used at kite-flying festivals and are an ancestral tradition for the Balinese. These kites gracefully soar through the skies, and turn a playful pastime into an artistic expression.

Routine ceremonies: Everyday prayers, festivals, and communal ceremonies are transformed into elaborate performances with colorful and stunning beauty, making even the simplest rituals feel grand.

The Balinese way of life demonstrates how art transforms the mundane into the magical, with a lasting impression on those who experience it.

Embed: https://www.instagram.com/reel/C_Xw-lxy5Zl/?igsh=MXVrNWlhb2lheXlyNg%3D%3D

Must-Visit Galleries and Events

Bali is the cultural epicentre of Indonesia, and is home to museums, galleries, and creative workshops at every corner. If you’re looking to discover Ubud’s art galleries and local events, here are some authentic ones listed below.

Blanco Renaissance Museum: Opened in 1998, this flamboyant museum combines Balinese and Spanish architectural influences in Dan Antonio Blanco’s eclectic works. You can explore the family temple, stroll through manicured gardens, or step into Blanco’s untouched studio, where his unfinished painting still rests on the easel.
Neka Art Museum: The Neka Art Museum celebrates traditional and contemporary Balinese art styles. It is expansive with six pavilions and 300 artworks.
Museum Puri Lukisan: Museum Puri Lukisan is the oldest art museum in Bali and was established in 1956. Like itself, the art that it hosts is also old, from the early 1900s. The museum includes four exhibition buildings and includes both pre and post independence work, highlighting the impact of Dutch colonialism.
Ubud Royal Palace (Puri Saren Agung): Constructed in the early 19th century, this palace was once the residence of the Ubud royal family and still remains a symbol of Balinese culture and tradition. It is marked by intricate carvings and showcases Balinese architectural expertise. Check out this heritage walking tour to the Ubud Royal Palace.
The events you can attend depend largely on when you visit. Depending on the time of the year, there are events like the Ubud Writers & Readers Festival, Bali Kite Festival, Taman Kuliner or Ubud Food Festival, among others.

Every trip to Bali supports the local economy, artisans, and their communities. Follow Ubud Story Walks on Instagram to explore Balinese art through the eyes of the locals.