The Magical - Bali

Hello again Indonesia. Just this time it’s a time for Bali. Woott..woottt!

It’s said that Bali goes under many names, ‘last paradise’, ‘island of the gods’, ‘dawning of the world’ and the ‘centre of the universe’ are yet maybe many more that I didn’t know. But one thing for sure, all that names came from this truly beautiful tropical island inhabited by a remarkably artistic people who have created a dynamic society with unique arts and ceremonies. We stayed at Jalan-Jalan Villa & Spa where it’s a traditional Balinese hotel located in the middle of rice fields of Ubud. It’s about 35- 40 km from Bali International airport. It has preserved the beautiful stone and woodwork in lush tropical gardens. This place is more than awesome!

Well, what this trip will be without a good food isn't  So howdy, buckle up for my authentic Balinese cuisine hunting!

Ding ding! First course served. I’ve ordered a beef rib with mashed potato and salad. This rib will satisfy even the greatest carnivorous cravings. Sweet and spicy, and so tender it will fall right off the bone. 

My friends ordered a Nasi Kuning, Bebek Betutu (roast duck in banana leaf), Nasi Goreng, Be Sampi Mebase Bali (braised beef in coconut milk). The presentation was pleasant on the eye and the taste was just amazing! 

I found out that Balinese people has their own spice paste which they used it every day. Same like soybean paste for Korean or Japanese. The called it Base Gede. This paste is a basic marinade used mainly to neutralize the strong flavour of duck, lamb, pork, and also for turtle! My dear friend in Bali shared this recipe:

25 shallots, peeled and chopped

12 cloves garlic, peeled and chopped

7 large red chillies, seeded and chopped

2 in laos, peeled and chopped

2 in kencur root, peeled and chopped

4 in fresh turmeric, peeled and chopped

1 tablespoon coriander seeds

6 candlenuts

2 teaspoons dried shrimp paste

1/2 teaspoon black peppercorns

1 pinch freshly grated nutmeg

3 cloves

4 tablespoons oil

Pound all ingredients, except oil. Heat oil in pan, add all ingredients and cook over high heat, stirring frequently, for 5 minutes until the marinade turns golden.