VOI - Voice of Indonesia | RRI - Radio Republik Indonesia

Bali in Indonesia is not only known as a center of tourism that offers fascinating nature but also as a place rich in Balinese culture that can be enjoyed by anyone visiting the island. Despite outside and modern influences, Bali maintains its thick traditional roots, especially through its cuisine, which continues to tempt the appetite of tourists. One notable dish is Lawar, a traditional Balinese culinary delight.

Lawar is a typical Balinese dish made from a mixture of vegetables and minced meat, seasoned with various spices. Initially, Lawar was served only at traditional and religious ceremonies, but now it has become a common dish in Balinese households and is widely available in restaurants under the name Balinese Lawar.

The naming of Lawar varies depending on the type of meat or vegetables used. For example, if chicken is used, it is called Chicken Lawar; if jackfruit is the main ingredient, it is named Jackfruit Lawar. The name can also be based on the dish's color, such as Red Lawar for red-colored Lawar or White Lawar if it appears white. There is also a type called Padamare Lawar, which is a mixture of several kinds of Lawar.

Making Balinese Lawar is relatively simple. Start by slicing long beans into approximately 1 cm pieces and set aside. Then add bean sprouts and remove the roots. Grind or pound together shallots, garlic, large red chilies, ginger, galangal, kencur, roasted candlenuts, pepper, coriander, roasted shrimp paste, and salt. Heat some oil, then sauté the ground spices until fragrant and cooked. Add minced meat and stir until slightly dry. After that, add grated coconut and stir over low heat until the coconut becomes dry and brownish, then set it aside to cool. Finally, mix the long beans, bean sprouts, other vegetables, and the chicken-coconut stir-fry. Add lime juice, stir until evenly mixed, and serve.

Due to its mostly vegetable-based ingredients such as starfruit, jackfruit, young coconut, and young papaya mixed with Balinese spices, Lawar is best enjoyed fresh as it does not last long.