Sate Lilit
Balinese Satay
Main DishBali's signature satay — unlike regular skewered satay found elsewhere in Indonesia, sate lilit features a seasoned paste of minced fish (or chicken, pork, or turtle), grated coconut, coconut milk, lime leaves, and lemongrass, hand-wrapped around lemongrass sticks or bamboo skewers and grilled over coconut husks. The result is moist, fragrant, and subtly sweet with the aromatics infusing directly into the meat from the lemongrass handle.
Spice Level
Mild
Difficulty
Moderate
Prep Time
45 minutes
Price Range
Budget Friendly
Ingredients
Where to Try
Warung Sate Lilit Men Wayan in Sanur, Biku Restaurant in Seminyak for an upscale version, or the many food stalls at Sindhu Night Market in Sanur. Also widely available at traditional markets across Gianyar regency.
Cultural Context
Sate lilit is considered uniquely Balinese and distinct from the peanut-sauce satay common across Java and mainland Southeast Asia. The 'lilit' technique (meaning 'to wrap') is a traditional method passed down through generations, and the dish frequently appears at temple ceremonies and family gatherings. In coastal areas, it is typically made with fresh-caught fish, while inland villages prefer chicken or pork.
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