Babi Guling
Roasted Suckling Pig
Main DishBali's most celebrated dish — a whole suckling pig stuffed with a rich paste of turmeric, coriander, lemongrass, and chili, then spit-roasted over coconut husks for hours until the skin is impossibly crispy. The meat is tender, aromatic, and deeply spiced, served alongside lawar, crispy skin, blood sausage (urutan), and steamed rice. Originally reserved for ceremonial feasts and temple offerings, babi guling has become the island's ultimate must-try culinary experience.
Spice Level
Medium
Difficulty
Difficult
Prep Time
4-6 hours
Price Range
Moderate
Ingredients
Where to Try
Ibu Oka in Ubud (made famous by Anthony Bourdain), Babi Guling Chandra in Denpasar, and warung-style stalls throughout Gianyar Market. Most places sell out by early afternoon, so arrive before noon.
Cultural Context
Babi guling holds deep ceremonial significance in Balinese Hindu culture, traditionally prepared for temple ceremonies (odalan), weddings, and tooth-filing rituals (metatah). Because Bali is predominantly Hindu rather than Muslim, pork is widely enjoyed here — making it unique in Indonesia. The communal preparation of babi guling is itself a social ritual, with men gathering to tend the spit for hours.
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