I’ve always loved the rich tapestry of flavours you can find in Balinese food. Whenever I thought about Bali, the first images that popped into my mind were exotic fruits, aromatic spices, and traditional dances. But once I arrived in Ubud, I realised there’s so much more to this culinary world than I had imagined. I stumbled upon Bali Manggang almost by accident, as I was wandering around Ubud’s lush green paths. I was looking for an authentic cooking class that would let me explore real Balinese recipes, and Bali Manggang seemed to fit the bill perfectly.
I still remember that day with excitement. My feet were tired from strolling around, but the smell of sautéed shallots and garlic from a nearby house made me perk up instantly. That was the moment I decided: “I need a proper cooking class to satisfy my craving for knowledge and, of course, for yummy treats!” I tried to ask a few locals about the best place to learn traditional Balinese dishes, and almost everyone recommended Bali Manggang.
Even as I booked my spot, my heart pounded with anticipation. I know it sounds a bit dramatic, but I’ve long dreamt of learning how to cook ayam betutu (Balinese spiced chicken) or preparing fresh sambal matah (the mind-blowing raw chilli sauce). I could already taste the spiciness lingering on my tongue. Little did I know, my upcoming experience would be even more incredible than I imagined. My adventure started the moment I hopped on a scooter to reach the cooking class venue, feeling like a free spirit beneath the swaying palm trees. The scenic ride alone was worth the trip, and then came the real magic! 🏝️
Arriving at Bali Manggang
Bali Manggang is nestled in the heart of Ubud, just a short scooter ride from the town centre. Even before I stepped through the gates, I noticed bright banners welcoming visitors to their cooking classes. The venue was surrounded by greenery and tranquil rice fields, which gave me an instant sense of calm. One thing that struck me was how relaxed everyone seemed. There were a few travellers chatting in the courtyard, sipping fresh coconut water and laughing with the friendly staff.
As soon as I arrived, I was greeted with a warm smile by one of the instructors. Her name was Yuni, and she made me feel at home right away. She offered me a small welcome drink of sweet ginger tea, which tasted divine. That first sip made me giggle a bit (it was so sweet and spicy at the same time) and I knew this experience was going to be something special.
In the reception area, they had a small display of local spices like galangal, turmeric, and lemongrass. Even though I’ve seen these ingredients in shops before, seeing them in their fresh and vibrant Balinese form was a new experience. The staff explained each spice’s unique role in Balinese cuisine. I was amazed by how integral these spices are to local culture and healing practices as well.
By the time I finished my ginger tea, a few more participants had arrived, and we were all eager to begin. The atmosphere felt a bit like a reunion of old friends, even though we’d just met. Everyone was buzzing about the recipes we’d get to try. Some wanted to learn about satay lilit (minced fish satay) while others couldn’t wait for dessert. Me? I was excited for absolutely everything! 😁
The Market Tour
The cooking class at Bali Manggang starts with a delightful market tour. We rode together to the local Ubud market in a small van, which gave us a chance to chat and share stories about our travels. The drive was short, maybe 15 minutes, but it was filled with the fragrance of the open roads, the chirping of birds, and the rustle of leaves.
Stepping into the local market felt like entering another world. There were vibrant stalls piled high with fresh produce: shiny eggplants, fiery red chillies, and baskets brimming with herbs. I really loved seeing how the locals shop for their daily groceries. Everyone seemed to know each other. They exchanged warm greetings and talked about the day’s catch or the best deals on fruits. The fish section was something else—fresh catches displayed on ice, with sellers proudly calling out to potential buyers. I’ll admit, the fish smell was intense, but it was also reassuring to know everything was freshly caught.
Yuni guided us to her favourite stalls, explaining the significance of each ingredient. One stall sold fresh coconut milk, squeezed right in front of you, while another offered a rainbow of exotic fruits. She taught us about jackfruit, snakefruit, and the beloved Balinese durian. Some travellers in our group tried durian for the first time, and we had plenty of giggles over the strong smell. I personally adore durian, so I was more than happy to snack on it.
What really touched me was how Yuni negotiated with the sellers. It wasn’t about haggling for the lowest price, but rather about respecting and supporting the local economy. That conversation itself was worth a million lessons. By the time we left the market, we had bags full of everything we’d need for our cooking lesson, from fresh veggies to aromatic herbs and spices. We piled back into the van, hearts full of excitement, ready to create something delicious back at Bali Manggang. 🌶️
(Source of local market details: Official Bali Tourism Board)
Getting Ready for the Cooking Class
Once we returned from the market, we headed straight to the cooking area. It’s an open-air kitchen under a traditional Balinese pavilion, with wooden pillars and a high thatched roof. Everything looked spotless and well-organised. On each cooking station, there was a neat display of colourful ingredients. I couldn’t help grinning from ear to ear because the sight reminded me of a cooking show set.
We were given aprons, which had the Bali Manggang logo printed on them, and I slipped it on with pride. The staff helped us wash our hands thoroughly, emphasising hygiene. They gave us each a quick briefing on using the knives and other utensils safely. Even though I cook a lot at home, it felt good to be reminded of the basics.
Before we started chopping anything, Yuni introduced us to some essential Balinese spice blends. She explained about the famous “Basa Genep” – a classic Balinese spice paste made from shallots, garlic, chillies, candlenuts, galangal, turmeric, and a few other spices. This thick paste is basically the soul of many Balinese dishes. We all took turns sniffing and tasting it. I was so amused by its powerful aroma that I let out a small cough, but also laughed it off. It was so intense yet so captivating!
As we prepared, we also learned about Balinese cooking philosophies. For example, they believe cooking should be done with a sense of gratitude and mindfulness. It’s about honouring the ingredients, the people who grew them, and the traditions passed down through generations. Hearing that made me more cautious and respectful when handling the food in front of me. With each chopping motion, I felt like I was part of something much bigger than myself. 🥥
(Source for Balinese spice blend info: Bali Manggang Official Site)
Cooking Balinese Dishes Step by Step
When we finally started cooking, I felt a rush of adrenaline. Our menu included several iconic Balinese dishes:
- Ayam Betutu (Balinese Spiced Chicken)
- Sambal Matah (Raw Chilli Salsa)
- Gado-Gado (Mixed Vegetables with Peanut Sauce)
- Satay Lilit (Minced Fish Satay)
- Klepon (Sweet Coconut Rice Balls)
Each dish came with its own story and unique preparation method. Yuni would demonstrate a step, and then we’d try it ourselves. For ayam betutu, we had to massage the spice paste into the chicken before wrapping it in banana leaves. Doing that was so fun—like giving a tiny spa treatment to the chicken (though that sounds weird, I know!). The smell of the spice paste clinging to my fingers was unforgettable.
Next came sambal matah. We finely chopped raw chillies, shallots, lemongrass, and tossed them with fresh lime juice and a bit of coconut oil. My eyes watered from the chillies, but I didn’t mind because the bright, zesty flavour was worth it. Then we moved on to gado-gado, gently blanching veggies and creating the thick peanut sauce with mortar and pestle. Making satay lilit was an exercise in patience—mixing minced fish with spices, then carefully wrapping it around lemongrass stalks before grilling. The aroma as they cooked was so mouth-watering, I couldn’t wait to taste them.
Finally, for dessert, we made klepon—those adorable little green rice balls stuffed with palm sugar. We boiled them until they floated to the top and then rolled them in grated coconut. Watching them bob up and down in the pot was so satisfying. I felt like a child peering into a magical cauldron of sweet delights.
Throughout the entire process, the staff made sure to help whenever we had questions. I never once felt lost. Instead, I felt supported, informed, and super excited. 🍗
Cultural Stories and Traditions
One of my favourite parts of the Bali Manggang cooking class was hearing about the cultural significance behind each dish. We learned that ayam betutu, for instance, is often served during ceremonies or important festivals. Each ingredient in the spice paste is symbolic, representing aspects of harmony and balance. Yuni also shared stories about how Balinese families come together to prepare feasts during religious events. She said it’s common for neighbours to help one another when there’s a big celebration, turning cooking into a communal festivity.
I found myself completely immersed in these stories. It made me appreciate how food isn’t just about nourishment—it’s about shared history, rituals, and beliefs. Balinese spirituality often blends with everyday activities, and cooking is a prime example. From placing offerings at small shrines before starting a meal to chanting prayers for good fortune, it’s a lifestyle that fosters gratitude. Hearing about this made me more mindful of how I approach cooking and sharing meals in my own life.
We also discussed how local families adapt old recipes for the modern era. Many keep the traditions alive but also introduce new twists. For instance, some might bake ayam betutu instead of cooking it over an open fire, or they might experiment with tofu-based satay for a vegetarian spin. These stories showed me that Balinese cuisine is both rooted in the past and open to new possibilities. It’s an evolving tradition, never losing its cultural backbone.
(Source for cultural insights: Official Indonesia Travel)
Tasting Our Culinary Creations
When our dishes were finally ready, we sat around a communal table to feast. I can’t even describe how exhilarating it was to see all that vibrant food, knowing I had helped prepare every bite. The colours alone—deep reds of the sambal, bright greens from the veggies, and the warm browns of the chicken—had my mouth watering.
The first thing I went for was the sambal matah, because I’m a chilli-lover. The zingy flavours hit me instantly. The raw shallots and chillies were super spicy, but the lime juice and coconut oil balanced it out. Next, I took a piece of the ayam betutu. My eyes nearly rolled back in delight. The chicken was tender, moist, and thoroughly infused with the spice mixture. The banana leaf wrapping also gave it a subtle earthy aroma.
I nearly squealed when I bit into the satay lilit. The lemongrass stick imparted a fragrant note that elevated the minced fish to new heights. It was one of those “wow!” moments. The gado-gado was comforting—soft veggies in a creamy peanut sauce that made me close my eyes and savour every spoonful. But the real showstopper was the klepon dessert. One bite and the palm sugar syrup oozed out, coating my tongue with sweetness. I must’ve looked silly grinning like a child, but I didn’t care. Everything tasted incredible! 🥥🍗
As I devoured each dish, I felt a rush of pride. The best part was sharing this mini feast with new friends from all around the world. We laughed, clinked our glasses, and praised each other’s cooking skills, even if some of us had initially struggled with chopping or stirring. It was a moment of pure joy and unity, brought to life by the simple pleasure of a shared meal.
Practical Information and Pricing
For those of you considering this cooking class, Bali Manggang has a few packages. I picked the full-day experience which includes the market tour and a full course meal. According to Bali Manggang’s official website, the price for the standard cooking class starts at around US$40 (approximately 600,000 IDR), and it can go up to US$55 (around 825,000 IDR) for the premium package that includes extra dishes and additional cultural activities.
In my opinion, it’s totally worth it, given how immersive and informative the class is. If you’re on a tight schedule, they also have a half-day class that omits the market tour and focuses solely on cooking. You should definitely book ahead, especially during peak tourist seasons like July to August or the year-end holidays. I booked my spot online using their website, and the process was really smooth.
As for transportation, Bali Manggang offers free pick-up and drop-off for those staying in central Ubud. If you’re outside Ubud, you might have to arrange your own transport or pay a small additional fee. Scooters are also an option if you’re confident riding in Bali’s traffic. I found it super fun, but be careful on the roads because traffic can be unpredictable.
(Source for pricing and packages: Bali Manggang Official Website)
Location and How to Get There
Bali Manggang is located in a serene part of Ubud, near many picturesque rice terraces. It’s about a 10-minute drive from the Ubud Palace. If you’re travelling from Denpasar Airport, you can reach the cooking class in about an hour, depending on traffic. Don’t forget to check the official Bali Manggang website for a detailed map or directions.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you could rent a scooter for about US$5-7 per day (roughly 75,000–105,000 IDR). The route is quite scenic, passing by lush fields and local villages. But if you’re not keen on riding, you can simply take a taxi or arrange a private driver. Some travellers also opt for a guided tour that includes a visit to nearby attractions like Tegallalang Rice Terrace or Tirta Empul Temple. That way, you can turn your cooking class day into a whole cultural expedition. 🚗
What I Learned from the Experience
Looking back, the Bali Manggang cooking class was much more than just a fun day out. I realised how intricate and layered Balinese cuisine is, from the careful selection of spices to the spiritual significance of every dish. I also learned how cooking can be a form of meditation. When you’re slicing vegetables or blending spices with a mortar and pestle, you can almost feel your mind focusing, letting go of stress and distractions.
I discovered that Balinese food is all about balance—balancing spicy, sweet, sour, salty, and savoury notes in every bite. The reliance on fresh ingredients was also eye-opening. Many of the herbs and spices are grown locally, ensuring a direct connection to the land. I got to see how mindful Balinese people are about using every part of a plant, reducing waste, and respecting nature’s gifts.
On a personal level, I also learned the value of community and shared experiences. Cooking side by side with strangers who quickly became friends made me appreciate how food unites us across cultures. We laughed over our mistakes, cheered each other on, and, by the end of the day, we were all hugging and sharing contact details. I left feeling more open, more appreciative of life’s simple joys, and more confident about recreating these dishes back home.
Final Thoughts
My Ubud trip wouldn’t have been the same without taking part in this cooking class. Bali Manggang gave me an authentic taste of Balinese culture, delivered through personal stories, hands-on cooking, and heartfelt hospitality. Even now, I find myself daydreaming about the comforting spice aromas and the laughter we shared around the communal table.
I highly recommend this experience to anyone visiting Bali, whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just curious about local traditions. This class will expand your culinary horizons, fill your camera’s memory card with drool-worthy snapshots, and leave you with beautiful memories. And who knows? You might make lifelong friends who share your passion for travel and good food. I know I did!
If you want to explore more Bali experiences, feel free to visit my Bali category here on travel.lv99.gg. You’ll find plenty of ideas for activities, accommodation, and general travel tips. Enjoy your adventure, and selamat makan! 🍍🥥
