Ayam Betutu Bali Recipe: Authentic Balinese Chicken Dish

Bali is an island known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich traditions, and, of course, its vibrant cuisine. Among Bali’s culinary gems, Ayam Betutu holds a special place.

This dish features a whole chicken marinated and stuffed with an aromatic mixture of Balinese spices, then slow-cooked until the meat is tender and infused with layers of flavor. Traditionally reserved for ceremonies and feasts, Ayam Betutu is now celebrated across Indonesia and the world.

Making Ayam Betutu at home offers an immersive experience into Balinese cooking. The key is its base genep—a complex spice paste that combines fresh herbs, roots, and spices, resulting in a fragrant, slightly smoky, and deeply savory dish.

Whether you’re craving a taste of Bali or eager to try something new for a special dinner, this recipe will guide you step by step to create an authentic Ayam Betutu that’s sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Flavors: Experience the true taste of Bali with traditional spices and cooking techniques.
• Show-Stopping Presentation: The whole chicken, beautifully golden and aromatic, makes a stunning centerpiece for any meal.
• Versatile Cooking: Whether you steam, roast, or grill, Ayam Betutu adapts to your kitchen setup.
• Meal Prep Friendly: The flavors develop beautifully overnight, making leftovers even more delicious.
• Cultural Connection: Bring Balinese tradition to your table and enjoy a dish once reserved for royalty.

Ingredients

Equipment

• Blender or food processor
• Large mixing bowl
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Mortar and pestle (optional, for spice paste)
• Large Dutch oven, steamer, or deep roasting pan
• Baking paper and aluminum foil
• Kitchen twine (for trussing the chicken)
• Cooking brush (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   • Clean the whole chicken thoroughly and pat dry with paper towels.
   • Rub the entire chicken with lime juice and salt. Let it sit for 15 minutes to remove any odor and tenderize the meat.
2. Make the Base Genep (Spice Paste):
   • In a blender or food processor, combine shallots, garlic, red chilies, bird’s eye chilies, ginger, galangal, turmeric, candlenuts, coriander seeds, black peppercorns, and nutmeg.
   • Blend until a smooth paste forms. Add a little coconut oil as needed to help blend.
3. Sauté the Spice Paste:
   • Heat coconut oil in a large pan over medium heat.
   • Add the spice paste and sauté for 5-7 minutes until fragrant and the oil separates.
   • Stir in the palm sugar, bruised lemongrass stalks, kaffir lime leaves, and bay leaves. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
4. Marinate and Stuff the Chicken:
   • Set aside about 1/3 of the cooked spice paste for stuffing.
   • Rub the remaining spice paste all over the chicken, making sure to coat under the skin and in every crevice.
   • Stuff the chicken cavity with the reserved spice paste. Use kitchen twine to tie the legs together and secure the stuffing.
5. Wrap the Chicken:
   • Wrap the marinated chicken tightly in baking paper, then in aluminum foil to seal in the moisture and flavors.
6. Cook the Chicken:
   • Traditional Steaming & Roasting: Place the wrapped chicken in a steamer or Dutch oven. Steam for 1.5 hours, then transfer to a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) and roast for 30-40 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is golden.
   • Alternative (Oven Only): Place the wrapped chicken in a roasting pan, add 1 cup of water to the pan, and roast at 180°C (350°F) for 2 to 2.5 hours.
   • Grill Option: For a smoky flavor, finish the chicken on a charcoal grill for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally.
7. Rest and Serve:
   • Let the chicken rest, still wrapped, for 10-15 minutes after cooking. This helps retain the juices.
   • Unwrap, carve, and serve with steamed rice, sambal matah (Balinese raw chili relish), and sautéed vegetables.

Tips & Variations

• Spice Level: Adjust the number of chilies to your preference. For a milder version, use fewer bird’s eye chilies.
• Vegetarian Betutu: Substitute chicken with tofu, tempeh, or jackfruit for a vegetarian twist. You can find more vegetarian inspiration in our Best Vegetarian Recipes Without Tofu for Every Meal and Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide.
• Make Ahead: The chicken can be marinated overnight for deeper flavor. Leftovers are even tastier the next day.
• Cooking Method: If you don’t have a steamer, roasting in the oven with some water in the pan will keep the chicken moist.
• Serving Suggestion: Pair with Chinese Veg Fried Rice Recipe In Marathi Made Easy for a unique fusion meal.

Chef’s Tip: For an extra burst of aroma, add a few drops of lime juice and a sprinkle of fried shallots just before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Note: Nutrition information will vary based on the size of the chicken and exact ingredients used.

Serving Suggestions

• Steamed Rice: The classic pairing—fluffy white or fragrant jasmine rice soaks up the spiced juices.
• Sambal Matah: A Balinese raw chili and shallot relish adds a fresh, fiery kick.
• Sautéed Greens: Stir-fried water spinach or green beans with garlic complements the rich flavors.
• Balinese Lawar: A traditional vegetable and coconut salad for texture and contrast.
• Chilled Coconut Water: Refreshes the palate and balances the spices.
• For a Plant-Based Feast: Try serving alongside Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas for a light and healthy addition.

Conclusion

Ayam Betutu is more than just a dish—it’s a celebration of Balinese culture, tradition, and bold flavors. Preparing it at home invites you to slow down and savor the process, from blending fragrant spices to unwrapping the tender, aromatic chicken.

Each bite transports you to Bali’s lush rice fields and vibrant markets, reminding you of the magic that happens when food and heritage unite.

Whether you’re cooking for a festive gathering or an intimate family meal, Ayam Betutu is guaranteed to delight and inspire. Don’t forget to explore other vibrant recipes on our site, like our Vegan Potato Corn Chowder Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food, and continue your global culinary adventure.

Selamat makan—happy eating!

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