Backpacking Indonesia 26/27: Strange! Balinese Kanom Krok Enjoy Crispy Pork Skin Rice Bowl Bali Indonesia

Backpacking Indonesia 26/27: Strange! Balinese Kanom Krok Enjoy Crispy Pork Skin Rice Bowl Bali Indonesia

When talking about Bali, many people probably think of golden sandy beaches, strong waves attracting surfers from around the world, or Hindu temples as beautiful as postcards. But for me, mr.hotsia, Bali is not just about the sea or temples. The local food is what made me fall in love and unable to stop eating, especially the “Balinese Kanom Krok,” which is unique and unlike anywhere else in the world.

This time I arrived in Bali with the intention to truly experience the local lifestyle and cuisine. After packing my backpack and going through the procedures from Denpasar Bali Airport to the city, which is as convenient as I have described before inthis articleI quickly went out to hunt for delicious food recommended by the locals.

Balinese Kanom Krok, unlike Thai Kanom Krok

We are familiar with Thai Kanom Krok, but the Balinese Kanom Krok I found in a small market by the roadside in Kuta city is completely different. Balinese Kanom Krok is a round flat cake with a crispy outside and soft inside, with a slightly salty and sweet taste, sometimes mixed with fresh coconut milk. The aroma from pandan leaves and spices mixed in the batter makes you want to keep eating more.

Importantly, this shop makes them fresh right before your eyes. I watched the owner scoop the batter into dozens of round iron molds lined up. Then they sprinkle grated coconut and spiced nuts on top. The taste is strange but very harmonious.

Crispy Pork Skin Rice Bowl with a Satisfying Taste in Bali

But the dish that made me say wow and eat with satisfaction has to be the “Crispy Pork Skin Rice Bowl,” a menu I only found at local restaurants in Bali. The crispy pork skin here is perfectly crispy, not too hard or chewy, combined with a secret sauce that is sweet and savory in perfect balance. Served with hot steamed rice and freshly washed vegetables, it was a meal that made me forget the fatigue from backpacking.

The restaurant I ate at is not far from the Kuta area, a zone popular with tourists because it is close to the beach and has a lively atmosphere as I have described inthe article about traveling Bali on your ownThis restaurant has no English menu but ordering is easy by pointing. The owner is kind and speaks simple English, but the smiles and kindness are more than a hundred percent.

Bali is not just about beaches and temples but also a lifestyle worth exploring

If you think Bali is just a surfer’s paradise or a Hindu religious site, you should open your heart to experience local markets and street food. I saw Balinese villagers who still strictly observe Hindu religion and culture deeply. Small shrines are found at every house, and there are interesting ceremonies where they offer food to gods and spirits frequently, which gave me a deeper understanding of what Bali really means.

For traveling in Bali, I recommend using taxi or motorcycle rentals because they help you reach places less visited by tourists easily. If you want detailed travel information about Bali, you can read fromthis articlethat I have compiled before.

Ending this trip with great impressions

After eating Balinese Kanom Krok and the crispy pork skin rice bowl until full, I, mr.hotsia, want to say that Bali is not just a tourist destination with only beaches and sacred temples, but an island full of life, unique flavors, and fascinating culture. If anyone wants a deep and satisfying travel experience especially in food, Bali is the place!

For those who want to see the atmosphere and how Balinese Kanom Krok is freshly made, you can watch inthe video clip Backpacking Indonesia 26/27: Strange! Balinese Kanom Krok Enjoy Crispy Pork Skin Rice Bowl Bali Indonesiathat I filmed myself.