Many of the leafy greens
enjoyed by the Balinese are gathered wild, such as the young shoots
of trees found in the family compound (starfruit is one favourite),
or young fern tips and other edible greens found along the lanes or
edges of the paddy fields. Immature fruits like the jackfruit and papaya
are also used as vegetables. The Balinese cook uses mature coconut almost
daily, grating it to add to vegetables, frying it with seasonings to
make a condiment, or squeezing the grated flesh with water to make coconut
milk for sauces which accompany both sweet and savoury dishes.
 |
 |
A balmy climate gives Bali an abundance of lush tropical fruit,
ranging from familiar bananas to giant jackfruit and thorny durians.
|
Although
the seas surrounding the island are rich in fish, the Balinese, even
those living near the coast, eat surprisingly little seafood. Mountains
are regarded as the abode of the gods and therefore holy, while the
lowest place of all the sea is said to be the haunt of evil spirits
and a place of mysterious power. On a more pragmatic level, the coastline
of Bali is dangerous for boats and possesses few natural harbours.
The majority
of the fish caught are a type of sardine, tuna and mackerel. Fresh fish
is available in coastal markets and the capital, Denpasar, but owing
to the limited availability of refrigeration, other markets sell these
fish either preserved in brine or dried and salted, like ikan
teri, a popular anchovy. Sea turtles have long been regarded
as a special food and are eaten on festive occasions along the coast
and in the south of Bali.
Abeautiful
tan coloured cow with a white rear end that makes it look as if it has
sat in talcum powder is being successfully raised in Bali, although
beef itself is seldom eaten by the Balinese.
Pork is the
favourite meat and appears on most festive occasions. Duck is also featured
frequently on Balinese festival menus, usually stuffed with spices and
steamed before being roasted on charcoal or minced to make satay.
The Balinese
eat creatures that not everyone would consider candidates for the table,
including dragonflies, small eels, frogs, crickets, flying foxes and
certain types of larvae. Visitors are advised to dismiss any preconceptions
and sample whatever is offered.
page
< 1 | 2 >
