From Soto Ayam to Pisang Goreng: Indonesian Food Must-Try List

 Discover the best Indonesian dishes including soto ayam, bebek betutu, pisang goreng, nasi campur, and lawar. Explore authentic Indonesian cuisine and flavors.

Indonesia is famous for its rich and diverse cuisine, filled with bold spices, fresh ingredients, and unique cooking techniques. If you’re looking to explore authentic Indonesian food, here are some of the best Indonesian dishes you should definitely try.

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🍲 1. Soto Ayam – Traditional Indonesian Chicken Soup

Soto Ayam is one of the most popular Indonesian dishes and is loved across the country.

     

                                                            

Soto Ayam -Made in my Manjuzkitchen                   Soto Ayam that we tried in Bali                                                                           

What is Soto Ayam?

It’s a comforting chicken soup made with:

• Shredded chicken
• Vermicelli noodles or rice
• Boiled eggs
• Herbs and spices like turmeric

Why you’ll love it

• Warm, light, and flavorful
• Perfect comfort food for a Frosty night
• Rich in spices yet not too heavy or spicy in little tummies

👉 Soto ayam is a must-try for anyone exploring Indonesian traditional cuisine.

Do check this restuarent MM JUICE  situated in Lippo Mall ,Kuta walkable distance from Anathera Resorts (MM Juice ,Lippo Mall ,Kuta) .If you're searching for affordable restaurants in Kuta with great food, this place is a must-visit. You can sample a variety of must-try dishes at reasonable prices, enjoy friendly service, and relax in a peaceful ambience. It was even recommended to us by a local, which makes it even more special.”

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🍗 2. Bebek Betutu – Flavorful Balinese Duck Dish

                                            

Bebek Betutu is a famous dish from Bali, known for its strong flavors and rich spices.

What is Bebek Betutu?

It’s a whole duck marinated with traditional spices, wrapped, and slow-cooked until tender served alongside rice  and raw Balinese salsa .

Why you’ll love it

• Deep, aromatic flavors
• Tender and juicy meat
• A true taste of Balinese cuisine

Try Naty's restuarent(Naty's restuarent Kuta) located right next to Anathera Resort.

 Resort(https://share.google/Po5R5rZLdpCuaPwoL).If you're in Kuta, make sure to check out this restaurant—it's the perfect place to tick off many must-try dishes .They also serve pizzas,flat grills ,stir fry and burgers, making it perfect for all kinds of cravings.

 

                                                                                             

 

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🍌 3. Pisang Goreng – Indonesian Fried Banana Snack

                          

Pisang Goreng is a popular Indonesian snack enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.

What is Pisang Goreng?

It’s banana coated in batter and deep-fried until crispy.Just like our Kerala Pazampori but with a different variety of Banana.It’s not coated in a smooth batter—instead, it forms a delicate, crumbly crust that makes it extra crispy and delicious.”

Why you’ll love it

• Crispy outside, soft inside
• Sweet and satisfying
• Perfect as a snack or dessert 

👉 A must-try if you love Indonesian street food and snacks.We even tried a soursop juice with no ice and very less sugar which was another try worthy drink .Especially my little one loved the juice and finished it in no time.

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🍛 4. Balinese Mix Rice– Mixed Rice with a Variety of Dishes

                                                          

                                                                                            

It is one of the most versatile Indonesian meals.We ordered it form Thera cafe in Anathera Resort Kuta along with a Peach Swizzel (Mocktail made with peach puree,sours mix,orange juice and soda water )as well a from Naty's restaurant.

 

 What is Balnese Mix Rice?

It’s a plate of rice served with a variety of side dishes such as:

• Meat (chicken, beef, or pork),we opted for fried chicken
• Traditional Balinese Vegetables
• Egg balado
• Sambal/ Balinese raw salsa
• Minced Fish satay &Prawn crackers
• Sweet and spicy bean cake 

Why you’ll love it

• A mix of different flavors in one plate
• Balanced and filling meal
• Great way to try multiple Indonesian dishes at once

5.Nasi Campur

Another iconic way to try lot of native flavors is by ordering this plate of goodness.

What is Nasi Campur ?

Just like Balinese rice ,this dish comes with 

Flavour packed rice 

Prawn crackers

Salad

Sambal

Tempeh and chicken curry 

Why you’ll love it

• A mix of different flavors in one plate
• Balanced and filling meal
• Great way to try multiple Indonesian dishes at once

 

Nasi Campur                                                                      Ayam GEPREK  with rice ,egg ,beans and chicken                                                                               (Chicken is deep fried ,shredded and mixed with spicy sambal)

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🌿 5. Lawar – Traditional Balinese Salad

  

Lawar served with rice ,temp-eh ,sambal and fried meat skewers

 

   

Fried chicken 

Lawar is a traditional dish from Bali made with a unique mix of ingredients.

What is Lawar?

It typically includes:

• Finely chopped vegetables
• Coconut
• Minced meat
• Herbs and spices

Why you’ll love it

• Fresh and flavorful
• Unique texture and taste
• A cultural Balinese dish

👉 Lawar is a must-try for those interested in traditional Balinese cuisine.

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🌟 Final Thoughts: Why You Should Try Indonesian Food

Indonesian cuisine is full of bold flavors, rich spices, and exciting combinations. From the comforting soto ayam to flavorful bebek betutu, sweet pisang goreng, hearty nasi campur, and unique lawar, each dish offers something special.

  

Java style Nasi Padang with sambals ,cassava leaf    Sate Madura

curry,vegetables and chicken

If you’re a food lover, exploring Indonesian dishes is a delicious journey worth taking.

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Top 4 Best Singaporean Dishes You Must Try

 Discover the best Singaporean dishes including bak kut teh, laksa, kaya toast with soft boiled eggs, and Hainanese chicken rice. Explore authentic Singapore food today!

Singapore is a food lover’s paradise, known for its diverse and flavorful cuisine influenced by Chinese, Malay, and Indian cultures. Whether you’re visiting or just exploring new foods, here are four of the best Singaporean dishes you must try.

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 1. Bak Kut Teh – Flavorful Pork Rib Soup

                           

Bak Kut Teh is a popular Singaporean dish that translates to “pork rib tea.” Despite its name, it doesn’t actually contain tea—it’s all about the rich, aromatic broth.

What is Bak Kut Teh?

It is a comforting soup made by simmering pork ribs with garlic, herbs, and spices.It so warm and comforing and my kid thoriughly enjoed it with some white rice as it was very mild  on little palate with tender meat and flavourful broth.

Why you’ll love it

• Rich and savory broth
• Tender, fall-off-the-bone pork ribs
• Perfect comfort food

 Bak kut teh is a must-try if you’re exploring traditional Singaporean cuisine.

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 2. Laksa – Spicy Coconut Noodle Soup

                                               

Laksa is one of the most iconic Singaporean dishes, known for its rich and spicy flavor.We havr tried vegeterian laksa ,seafood combination as well as mackeral laksa ,each bowl was better than the other .Again everytime we asked for spice paste and accompan

What is Laksa?

Laksa is a noodle soup made with:

• Coconut milk-based broth
• Rice noodles
• Shrimp or chicken
• Chili paste and spices

Why you’ll love it

• Creamy, spicy, and aromatic
• Packed with seafood flavor
• A perfect mix of comfort and spice

 Laksa is a staple in Singapore street food culture.

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 3. Kaya Toast with Soft Boiled Eggs &Teh Tarik  (tea) – A Classic Breakfast

                                                 

Kaya toast is a traditional Singaporean breakfast that is simple yet delicious.

What is Kaya Toast?

It’s toasted bread spread with kaya (a sweet coconut and egg jam) and butter, usually served with soft boiled eggs and coffee.

Why people love it

• Sweet and creamy kaya spread
• Crispy toast with melted butter
• A comforting morning meal

My honest take

While kaya toast is delicious, soft boiled eggs were not my favorite. The texture can be unusual if you’re not used to it, but it’s still worth trying for the full Singaporean experience!

 This dish is a must-try for anyone exploring Singapore breakfast foods.

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 4. Hainanese Chicken Rice – Singapore’s National Dish

Hainanese chicken rice is often considered Singapore’s national dish and is loved by locals and tourists alike.

What is Hainanese Chicken Rice?

 Poached chicken ,Fragrant rice cooked in chicken broth,Served with chili sauce, garlic paste, and soy sauce.

Why you’ll love it

• Simple yet incredibly flavorful
• Juicy, tender chicken
• Delicious, aromatic rice

5. Nasi Lemak with fragrant Pandan rice  and chilli

The pandan leaf flavoured Nasi Lemak was a true sensory delight from the very first moment it arrived. The gentle aroma of pandan combined with rich coconut milk created a fragrance that felt both comforting and irresistible.

The rice was soft, fluffy, and beautifully infused with subtle sweetness from the coconut and the earthy, fresh notes of pandan. Each bite felt light yet satisfying, making it the perfect base for the flavorful accompaniments served alongside.

What truly elevated the dish was the balance of textures and flavours—the spicy, slightly sweet sambal added a kick, while crispy anchovies and roasted peanuts brought in a delightful crunch. The egg and fresh cucumber slices added simplicity and freshness, tying everything together harmoniously.

Every mouthful felt like a perfect blend of creamy, spicy, crunchy, and aromatic elements. It’s a dish that may seem simple at first, but the depth of flavour and fragrance makes it incredibly memorable.

A classic that beautifully represents Southeast Asian cuisine—comforting, aromatic, and absolutely satisfying. 🌿🍛

6. 🍤 Penang Belacan Fried Rice – A Burst of Bold Flavours

                                                       

The Penang Belacan Fried Rice was one of those dishes that instantly stood out with its strong, unforgettable aroma. The moment it arrived, the distinct scent of belacan (fermented shrimp paste) filled the air—rich, deep, and incredibly inviting.

Each grain of rice was perfectly coated, carrying a bold umami flavour that was both savoury and slightly smoky. The belacan added an intense depth, balanced beautifully with hints of spice, garlic, and a touch of chili heat that lingered just enough without being overwhelming.

What made the dish even more enjoyable was the mix of textures—juicy prawns, bits of vegetables, and the occasional crunch that complemented the soft rice. Every bite felt layered and satisfying, with flavours that kept building.

This dish truly reflects Penang’s vibrant food culture—simple ingredients elevated through powerful flavours. It’s definitely not for someone looking for mild food, but if you enjoy bold, authentic tastes, this is a must-try experience that stays with you long after the meal.

7.🐟 Ikan Bakar – Smoky, Spiced Grilled Perfection

                                                                

The Ikan Bakar instantly caught my attention with its smoky aroma even before it reached the table. Wrapped and grilled to perfection, the fish had a beautifully charred exterior that hinted at the bold flavours inside.

Marinated in a rich blend of spices and sambal, every bite was packed with a deep, savoury taste, balanced with just the right amount of heat. The grilling process added a subtle smokiness that elevated the flavours, making it incredibly satisfying.

The fish itself was tender and flaky, absorbing all the spices while still retaining its natural freshness. Paired with a side of tangy dipping sauce, it added an extra layer of zest that complemented the dish perfectly.

What made Ikan Bakar truly special was its simplicity—fresh ingredients, bold marinade, and expert grilling coming together to create something so flavourful and memorable.

A must-try dish that beautifully captures the essence of Malaysian and Singaporean coastal cuisine—smoky, spicy, and full of character. 🔥🐟

8.Biriyani combos 

                                                                                                     

Allauddin's Biriyani combo another epic biriyani you will ever taste ,we got this from a stall in Universal studio.

Final Thoughts: Why You Should Try Singaporean Food

Singaporean cuisine is all about bold flavors, cultural fusion, and comforting meals. From the rich bak kut teh and spicy laksa to the classic kaya toast breakfast and iconic Hainanese chicken rice, each dish offers a unique taste of Singapore.

Even if some dishes (like soft boiled eggs!) aren’t your personal favorite, trying them is part of the experience of exploring authentic Singaporean food.

Top Sri Lankan Dishes You Must Experience !!!

 Discover the best Sri Lankan dishes including kothu roti, coconut roti, curry, milk cake, and sambal. Explore authentic Sri Lankan food and flavors in this delicious guide.

Sri Lankan cuisine is famous for its bold spices, rich aromas, and unique flavor combinations. If you're searching for authentic Sri Lankan food or planning to try something new, this guide introduces you to some of the most popular Sri Lankan dishes you shouldn’t miss.

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 1. Kothu Roti – Famous Sri Lankan Street Food

         

Kothu roti is one of the most famous Sri Lankan street foods, loved for its taste and preparation style.

What is Kothu Roti?

Kothu roti is made by chopping flatbread and stir-frying it with vegetables, eggs, and meat (chicken, beef, or seafood) on a hot griddle.

Why is it popular?

• Packed with bold Sri Lankan spices
• Freshly made in front of you
• Unique texture with crispy and soft bites

 If you are exploring Sri Lankan street food, kothu roti is a must-try dish.

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 2. Coconut Roti (Pol Roti) – Traditional Sri Lankan Flatbread

                           

                                          coconut roti

Coconut roti, also known as pol roti, is a simple yet delicious traditional dish.

What is Coconut Roti?

It is made from flour mixed with freshly grated coconut, water, and a pinch of salt. Some variations include chili and onion for extra flavor.

Why you should try it

• Crispy on the outside, soft inside
• Light coconut flavor
• Perfect with curry or sambal

 It is commonly eaten as a Sri Lankan breakfast dish or snack.

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 3. Sri Lankan Curry – Rich and Flavorful

No list of Sri Lankan dishes is complete without mentioning curry.

   

Red chilli sambal ,Yellow Dhal ,Jackfruit curry and colacassia leaves curry 

What makes Sri Lankan curry special?

Sri Lankan curry uses a mix of spices like turmeric, curry leaves, cinnamon,black pepper powder and chili combined with coconut milk.

Types of Sri Lankan curries:

• Chicken curry
• Fish curry
• Vegetable curry
• Lentil (dhal) curry

Why you’ll love it

• Rich, creamy, and spicy
• Full of authentic flavors
• Served with rice or roti

 Sri Lankan curry is a key part of traditional Sri Lankan meals.

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 4. Milk Cake and Sambal – Sweet and Spicy Combination

                       

                       Crispy dosa ,orange chutney and sambal chilli and white colored kiribath 

Sri Lankan cuisine is known for balancing sweet and spicy flavors, and this combination is a perfect example.

Milk Cake (Kiribath / Milk Toffee)

• Sweet and creamy dessert
• Made with rice or condensed milk
• Soft and rich texture

Sambal

• Spicy condiment made with chili, coconut, onion, and lime
• Adds heat and freshness

Why try this combination?

The sweetness of milk cake paired with spicy sambal creates a unique and exciting taste experience.

 It’s a great way to explore both Sri Lankan desserts and spicy condiments.

5 .Lotus Leaf Feast in Sri Lanka: My Personal            

Experience

Sri Lanka is known for its rich and flavorful cuisine, and one of the most unique dishes I’ve tried is the lotus leaf feast. This dish stood out to me not only because of its taste but also because of the entire experience of eating it.

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🌿 What is a Lotus Leaf Feast?

A lotus leaf feast is a traditional dish where rice, meat, and vegetables are wrapped inside a lotus leaf and then steamed or cooked together.

When served, the leaf is opened up, releasing a delicious aroma that instantly makes you excited to eat. It feels like unwrapping a special gift!

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🍚 My Experience Trying It in Sri Lanka

When I first tried the lotus leaf feast in Sri Lanka, I was really curious about how it would taste. The presentation was simple but unique—the food came wrapped tightly in a lotus leaf.

As soon as I opened it, I could smell a warm, earthy fragrance from the leaf mixed with spices. Inside, there was:

• Flavored rice
• Meat (usually chicken or pork)
• Vegetables
• Spices and sauces

Everything was perfectly cooked and full of flavor.

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🌟 What I Loved About It

✅ Amazing Aroma

The lotus leaf gives a natural fragrance that makes the dish smell incredible.

✅ Rich Flavor

The rice absorbs all the spices and juices, making every bite delicious.

✅ Unique Experience

Opening the lotus leaf made the meal feel special and different from normal dishes.

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🤔 My Honest Opinion

I really enjoyed trying the lotus leaf feast. The taste was flavorful and comforting, and the aroma made it even better.It’s the kind of meal that hits you with color first, then aroma, then that slow-building heat that makes you grin and sweat.

It’s not just about eating—it’s about the experience of opening the leaf and enjoying the smell and taste together. If you like trying traditional Sri Lankan food, this dish is definitely worth it.     

Yes, we adore our chicken, but vegetarian dishes have a charm that’s impossible to ignore. The layers of spices, the freshness of herbs, the creativity in every bite — it’s a feast that feels both nourishing and exciting. These dishes don’t try to imitate meat; they celebrate vegetables for what they are: delicious, versatile, and deeply satisfying.

 

6.Lamprais (Sri Lankan Banana‑Leaf Rice Pack)

A traditional Sri Lankan meal Baked in banana leaf for deep, smoky flavor A complete bundle of rice, curries, and sambols

What’s inside Lamprais?    

Fragrant Rice – Cooked in stock with spices – Soft, aromatic, and lightly savory

Mixed Meat Curry or Veg Options – Slow‑cooked until tender – Rich, bold flavors

Seeni Sambol – Sweet‑spicy caramelized onion relish – Adds warmth and depth

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Chilli sambal ,   Turmeric and onion sambal

  

                                 Coconut sambal                 Shrimp sambal                                               

Blachan (Shrimp Paste Sambal) – Salty, spicy, umami kick – Traditional Dutch‑Burgher influence

Ash Plantain or Eggplant Curry – Soft, earthy, and comforting

Frikkadel (Sri Lankan meatball) – Savory and peppery
– Adds texture and richness

Why try Lamprais?

The magic of Lamprais comes from baking everything together in a banana leaf, letting the flavors blend into one smoky, aromatic, deeply satisfying meal.

👉 It’s a perfect way to experience Sri Lanka’s layered spices, colonial influences, and slow‑cooked comfort in one delicious parcel.

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 Final Thoughts: Why You Should Try Sri Lankan Food

Sri Lankan food offers a perfect mix of spice, texture, and flavor. From the iconic kothu roti street food to comforting coconut roti, rich Sri Lankan curry, and the contrast of milk cake and sambal, every dish tells a story of culture and tradition.

The lotus leaf feast in Sri Lanka is a unique and memorable dish that combines culture, flavor, and presentation. From the fragrant lotus leaf to the delicious filling inside, it’s something every food lover should try at least once.

👉 If you ever visit Sri Lanka, don’t miss the chance to experience the Sea food feast as well .

  

 

A stall serving ocean‑fresh seafood Everything cooked to order Simple, authentic, and full of flavor 

 

What makes this seafood special?

Fresh Catch of the Day – Seafood comes directly from the ocean – No long storage, no frozen stock

Cooked Right in Front of You – Grilled, fried, steamed — your choice – You watch the whole process

Natural Ocean Flavors – Sweet, briny, and tender – Seasoned lightly to let the freshness shine

Why try this seafood stall?

The experience is all about freshness and simplicity. You pick your seafood, they cook it immediately, and you enjoy it at its absolute best.We tried SriLankan Crab curry missed clicking ,as we were too excited to try.Our absolute favourite was the prawns stir fry with some local greens .In every bite we were able to experience the flavour of prawns sweet ,mild and oceany .

Do let me know if you have tried any other dishes ...