Traditional Balinese Snacks Every Traveller Should Try

TheIndonesia.co - Bali, the "Island of the Gods," is not only known for its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture but also for its unique and flavourful snacks. Whether you're exploring the island's markets, temples, or beaches, there’s a world of delicious, affordable street food waiting to be discovered. Among the many Balinese treats, a select few stand out as must-tries: Jaje Laklak, Rujak Buah, Bulung Kuah Pindang, and Nasi Jinggo. These snacks, along with a few other local favourites, offer a delicious glimpse into Bali’s culinary heritage.

Bali’s traditional snacks offer an authentic and affordable way to experience the island’s vibrant culinary culture. These treats capture the essence of Bali in every bite.

So, whether you're exploring the bustling markets, lounging on the beaches, or trekking through Bali’s rice terraces, don’t forget to indulge in these local favourites. They’re sure to add flavour to your Balinese adventure, leaving you with unforgettable memories and a satisfied stomach. Bali’s street food scene is a treasure trove of delicious snacks waiting to be discovered. Here are nine Balinese snacks and light meals than win travellers' hearts. Bon appétit!

1. Jaje Laklak: Balinese Green Pancakes

One of Bali’s most iconic snacks is Jaje Laklak, a traditional Balinese pancake. These small, round treats are made from rice flour, coconut milk, and pandan leaves, which give them a vibrant green colour and a subtle fragrance. They're cooked in a special pan, creating a soft, spongy texture that's complemented by a sweet topping of freshly grated coconut and palm sugar syrup.

What makes Jaje Laklak so special is its simplicity and balance of flavours. The slight bitterness of the pandan leaves, the sweetness of the coconut, and the richness of the syrup come together in perfect harmony. You’ll find Jaje Laklak at street stalls, during local festivals, and in markets, making it easy to try for yourself during your trip.

2. Rujak Buah: A Tangy, Spicy Fruit Salad

For travellers craving something refreshing with a spicy kick, Rujak Buah is a must-try. This traditional fruit salad combines tropical fruits like mango, papaya, cucumber, and pineapple, all dressed in a tangy and spicy sauce made from tamarind, chili, and palm sugar. The result is a perfect mix of sweet, sour, and spicy flavours.

Often served with fried tofu or tempeh, Rujak Buah is not only a healthy snack but also a flavourful one. It’s a great way to cool off during Bali’s hot days while enjoying a burst of complex flavours. Street vendors in places like Ubud often offer fresh servings of this dish, making it easy to grab and go as you explore the island.

3. Bulung Kuah Pindang: Fresh Seaweed Salad in Spicy Light Fish Stock

Bulung Kuah Pindang is a traditional Balinese dish that features fresh seaweed in a tangy, flavourful broth. The dish is made by simmering seaweed with a variety of spices, including lemongrass, turmeric, fish stock, and chili, which gives it a fragrant and slightly spicy taste. The broth or stock made from fish, typically tuna, boiled in water.

This spicy soup-like dish can be served with crisps and steamed rice or tipat, rice cakes made from glutinous rice wrapped in palm leaves. It has a refreshing yet savoury flavour, making it a popular choice for both locals and tourists. Bulung Kuah Pindang is typically enjoyed as a light, healthy meal, perfect for a warm day in Bali.

4. Pie Susu: Bali’s Creamy Milk Pie

Another favourite among locals and tourists alike is Pie Susu, a small, buttery pastry filled with a rich, creamy custard. The custard is made from milk, eggs, sugar, and vanilla, resulting in a smooth and sweet filling that contrasts beautifully with the flaky, golden-brown crust. While the basic Pie Susu is delicious on its own, many shops offer variations like chocolate, cheese, or fruit-filled options.

Often packaged in sets, Pie Susu makes for a perfect souvenir or snack to enjoy while sightseeing. It’s widely available at local shops in tourist areas like Kuta and Seminyak, making it a convenient treat for travellers.

5. Nasi Jinggo: A Portable Balinese Meal

For a quick, filling snack, Nasi Jinggo is a popular choice among locals and tourists alike. This compact meal consists of a small portion of steamed rice wrapped in a banana leaf, accompanied by sambal (chili paste), fried tempeh, shredded chicken, and a hard-boiled egg. Simple but satisfying, Nasi Jinggo is an inexpensive and convenient snack that travellers can enjoy on the go.

Perfect for a quick breakfast or lunch, Nasi Jinggo is often sold by street vendors or at local warungs (small eateries). The combination of flavours and textures—spicy sambal, tender rice, crispy tempeh, and flavourful chicken—makes it a must-try for anyone looking to experience Balinese street food in its most authentic form.

6. Sate Lilit: A Flavourful Twist on Satay

While Sate Lilit might look like your typical satay, this Balinese version offers a unique twist. Instead of skewering meat on sticks, the minced meat (usually chicken or fish) is mixed with grated coconut, lime leaves, garlic, and spices, then wrapped around a lemongrass stalk or bamboo stick and grilled to perfection. The result is a juicy, flavourful satay that has a wonderful blend of smoky and herby notes.

You’ll often find Sate Lilit being served with a side of sambal, a spicy chili paste that adds an extra kick. It's a popular choice among both locals and visitors because of its rich flavor and satisfying texture. Whether it’s for a quick snack or part of a larger meal, Sate Lilit is a must-try for anyone looking to savour authentic Balinese flavors.

7. Klepon: Sweet Rice Cake Balls

For those with a sweet tooth, Klepon is a delightful treat. These little green rice cake balls are made from glutinous rice flour and filled with palm sugar syrup. When you bite into them, the warm syrup bursts out, creating a deliciously sweet experience. The bright green color comes from pandan leaves, adding a fragrant touch to the soft, chewy texture of the rice cake.

Traditionally, Klepon is coated with freshly grated coconut, adding a lovely contrast of texture. It’s often served at traditional ceremonies and festive occasions, but you can also find it at local markets and food stalls. If you love sweet and chewy treats, Klepon will quickly become one of your favourites in Bali.

8. Tipat Cantok: Glutinous Rice Wrapped in Palm Leaves

Tipat Cantok is a traditional Balinese dish that features rice cakes, known as tipat, which are made from glutinous rice wrapped in palm leaves and steamed. The dish is served with a mix of fresh vegetables such as bean sprouts, cucumber, and spinach, along with tofu and tempeh for added protein. What makes Tipat Cantok unique is its delicious peanut sauce, made from ground peanuts, garlic, chilies, and sweet soy sauce, creating a perfect balance of sweet, savoury, and spicy flavors. It’s a refreshing and healthy dish often enjoyed as a light meal or snack.

9. Dadar Gulung: A Sweet Green Crepe Roll

Another favourite among Balinese locals is Dadar Gulung, a sweet green pancake roll filled with grated coconut and palm sugar. The pancake itself is made from rice flour and pandan leaves, giving it a bright green color and a slight herbal aroma. The filling consists of grated coconut mixed with sweetened palm sugar, creating a rich, chewy, and flavourful experience.

Dadar Gulung is often eaten as a light breakfast or afternoon snack and is loved for its unique balance of flavours. It’s especially popular during festivals, where it can be found in abundance. If you enjoy sweet and chewy treats, Dadar Gulung offers an irresistible bite of Bali in every roll.

Where to Find These Snacks in Bali?

These delicious snacks can be found all over Bali. Jaje Laklak is often sold at local markets, especially during religious events and celebrations. Rujak Kuah Pindang is commonly found in food stalls around Ubud, a great place to sample this fruity, spicy salad. Pie Susu is widely available in shops, particularly in tourist-heavy areas like Kuta and Seminyak. Nasi Jinggo can be spotted at street-side stalls, especially in the morning hours when it’s a popular breakfast option for locals.

For other snacks like Sate Lilit and Klepon, head to street vendors in towns such as Denpasar, Ubud, and Gianyar. Many of these treats are sold in local markets and food stalls that are perfect for sampling an array of Balinese flavours at affordable prices. You can also find Laklak and Dadar Gulung at smaller warungs, especially in rural areas, where these snacks are often made fresh to order.