Traditional Foods of Galungan and Kuningan: A Taste of Bali’s Rich Culture

Balinese celebrations in Galungan and Kuningan are related to traditional foods that bring family and society as well as spirituality and tradition. These festivals are distinguished by dharma (good) against adharma (bad), and Balinese expresses gratitude through prayer, performance, and, of course, a traditional feast. Explore some of the most famous foods you enjoy in Galungan and Kuningan below!

1. Lawar

One of the most famous dishes for Galungan and Kuningan is a lawar that’s made of chopped meat, grated coconut, and a mixture of rich aromatic spices. Several differences include even-numbered blood. Lawar is not limited to satisfying your hunger. It represents harmony. The mixture of various ingredients creates a balance that symbolizes the collection of various elements.

2. Sate Lilit

Sate Lilit is another important meal during these celebrations. Unlike the normal top of the flesh, the dead are mixed with grated coconut, herbs, and spices (usually fish or chicken), wrapped in bamboo rods and grilled to the perfect point.

3. Babi Guling

No Galungan or Kuningan feast is complete without the famous Babi Guling (roast pig). This is not just any roast; the pig is marinated with a mixture of turmeric, garlic, and other spices, then the marinated pig is slowly roasted on a spit until the skin is crispy and the meat tender. It’s usually served with Lawar and rice, making it a true Balinese feast.

4. Tum Ayam

Tum Ayam is a popular dish often found during Balinese celebrations. It consists of minced chicken mixed with a blend of spices like turmeric, garlic, and lemongrass, wrapped in banana leaves and steamed until fragrant and tender. This dish offers a beautiful balance of flavors and is a lighter option compared to some of the other heavier dishes served during Galungan and Kuningan.

5. Jukut Ares

For those who enjoy soups, Jukut Ares is a must-try. Made from banana stems, this soup is cooked with aromatic spices, creating a unique and flavorful broth. It’s often served with pork or chicken, adding a heartiness to the dish. The light yet savory soup is a refreshing contrast to the richer, meat-heavy dishes typically found during these Balinese celebrations.

6. Urutan

Urutan is a type of sausage that is also a traditional dish during Galungan. This Balinese sausage is made from minced pork mixed with base genep, a blend of traditional spices. 

The seasoned meat is then stuffed into cleaned pig intestines. Afterward, the sausages are hung above the stove and smoked until dry. Once filled into the cleaned intestines, the sausage mixture is smoked over the stove until it dries, taking on the appearance of a sausage.

7. Jajan Bali

After a hearty meal, no celebration is complete without something sweet. Jajan Bali refers to traditional Balinese cakes and snacks, often made from rice flour, coconut, and palm sugar. Favorites include klepon (glutinous rice balls filled with palm sugar), dadar gulung (coconut-filled crepes), and serombotan (a sweet and savory dish made from vegetables and coconut).

At Shrida Ubud, our dessert menu is filled with delightful options to satisfy your sweet tooth. Their Balinese Banana Fritters and Coconut Pancakes are the perfect way to end a meal, especially when paired with a cup of the signature Balinese Coffee. For those looking to enjoy authentic Balinese flavors in a cozy, welcoming setting, Shrida Ubud’s desserts offer the perfect finish to your dining experience.

Offerings and Spiritual Meals

Food during Galungan and Kuningan isn’t just about eating. It’s also about giving thanks to the gods and the ancestors through offerings. Many of the foods prepared during these festivals are placed in canang sari (offerings) before they are enjoyed by the family. These offerings often include rice, fruit, and sweets, arranged in beautiful displays that honor the Balinese belief in balance and harmony.

Experience the Spirit of Galungan and Kuningan at Shrida Ubud

Whether you’re celebrating Galungan and Kuningan or just looking to explore the rich culinary traditions of Bali, Shrida Ubud is the perfect destination. Our carefully curated menu brings together the best of traditional Balinese dishes with a modern, healthy twist, ensuring that every guest leaves feeling nourished and satisfied.

And if you’re planning to visit Ubud, why not make a reservation at Shrida Ubud? Our beautiful location, combined with their commitment to serving authentic, high-quality food, makes it an ideal place to experience the flavors and spirit of Bali. Whether you’re dining with family, friends, or simply enjoying a solo meal, you’ll feel right at home.

Book Your Culinary Journey Today

To truly immerse yourself in the magic of Galungan and Kuningan, visit Shrida Ubud. Our menu is designed to offer a taste of Bali’s rich culinary heritage, with options for every palate. Plus, our friendly staff and cozy atmosphere make it the perfect spot for a relaxed, enjoyable meal. So why wait? Book your table at Shrida Ubud today and discover the flavors of Bali.