Tapak Dara Bali

Naturally grown, Community Made

Rice Guide

Balinese Red Rice: A Nutritious Staple with Earthy Flavor

Balinese red rice is a traditional whole-grain rice grown in the fertile volcanic soils of Bali. Known for its reddish-brown bran layer, this rice has a slightly nutty flavor, chewy texture, and impressive nutritional profile. Unlike polished white rice, Balinese red rice retains its outer bran, making it rich in fiber, antioxidants, iron, and essential minerals.

For generations, it has been a staple in Balinese cuisine, often served alongside vegetables, grilled fish, curries, and spicy sambals. Its hearty texture also makes it popular in modern health-focused cooking.

Common Uses of Balinese Red Rice

  • Side dish: Served in place of white rice with Indonesian and Asian meals.
  • Rice bowls: Combined with roasted vegetables, tofu, or grilled chicken.
  • Salads: Cooled red rice adds texture and nutrition to grain salads.
  • Breakfast porridge: Simmered with coconut milk and fruit for a wholesome breakfast.
  • Vegetarian dishes: Its nutty flavor pairs especially well with mushrooms, tempeh, and legumes.

Simple Balinese Red Rice Recipe

A round rice ball made with reddish grains on a black ceramic plate
A neatly shaped Korean rice ball served on a rustic black plate

Coconut Red Rice Bowl

Ingredients

  • 1 cup Balinese red rice
  • 2 cups water
  • 1/2 cup coconut milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • Steamed vegetables (such as carrots, spinach, or green beans)
  • Fried shallots or toasted sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

  1. Rinse the red rice thoroughly under cold water.
  2. In a pot, combine the rice, water, coconut milk, and salt.
  3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for 35–40 minutes, or until the rice is tender.
  4. Let the rice rest for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
  5. Serve warm with steamed vegetables and garnish with fried shallots or sesame seeds.

The creamy coconut milk complements the rice’s earthy flavor, creating a simple but satisfying dish inspired by Balinese home cooking.

How to Cook Plain Balinese Red Rice

Cast iron pot with boiling grains on a gas stove burner
Whole grains gently simmer in a cast iron pot on a stovetop burner.

Cooking plain Balinese red rice is simple, although it requires a little more water and time than white rice. The result is a hearty, fragrant rice that pairs well with vegetables, grilled meats, curries, and sambal.

Basic Method for Cooking Balinese Red Rice

Ingredients

  • 1 cup Balinese red rice
  • 2½ cups water
  • Pinch of salt (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse the rice under cold water two or three times to remove excess starch.
  2. Place the rice and water into a pot or rice cooker.
  3. Bring to a boil if cooking on the stove.
  4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 35–45 minutes until the water is absorbed.
  5. Let the rice rest for 5–10 minutes before fluffing with a fork.

The cooked rice should be tender with a slightly chewy bite. Its mild, nutty flavor makes it an excellent base for both traditional Balinese dishes and modern healthy meals.