Bali Harvest Rasa

About Bali Harvest Rasa

Bali Harvest Rasa is a delightful Indonesian dish that embodies the vibrant flavors and rich cultural heritage of Bali. This dish is deeply rooted in the agricultural traditions of the island, where rice paddies and bountiful local produce create a culinary tapestry unlike any other. Traditionally, Balinese cuisine celebrates the harmony of sweet, salty, spicy, and sour elements, often highlighted through ceremonial dishes and community gatherings. Bali Harvest Rasa, with its melange of fresh vegetables, fragrant spices, and aromatic herbs, captures this essence beautifully.

The Rich History of Balinese Cuisine

The Balinese culinary tradition is influenced by a myriad of factors including geography, religion, and colonization. Rice, as a staple crop, stands at the core of Balinese food culture, often accompanied by vegetables, meats, and exotic spices. The social aspect of eating in Bali, frequently done communally, underscores the importance of food in both ritual and daily life. Through centuries, Balinese food has evolved, adopting flavors and influences from traders and settlers, creating a unique blend that is adored worldwide.

Ingredients

• Jasmine Rice - 2 cups
• Coconut Milk - 1 cup
• Lemongrass - 1 stalk, bruised
• Galangal - 1 inch, peeled and sliced
• Turmeric - 1 teaspoon, grated
• Shrimp - 200g, peeled and deveined
• Tofu - 200g, cubed
• Red Chili - 2, sliced
• Garlic - 4 cloves, minced
• Shallots - 2, sliced
• Kaffir Lime Leaves - 4
• Lime - 1, juiced
• Bean Sprouts - 100g
• Green Beans - 100g, trimmed
• Peanuts - 50g, roasted and crushed
• Gula Melaka - 1 tablespoon, grated
• Sea Salt - to taste
• Coconut Oil - 2 tablespoons
• Coriander Leaves - for garnish

Preparation

In preparation for making Bali Harvest Rasa, start by rinsing the jasmine rice thoroughly until the water runs clear. This ensures that any excess starch is removed, yielding fluffier rice. Then, combine the coconut milk, lemongrass, galangal, and turmeric in a pot, and stir well before bringing it to a gentle simmer.

Cooking Process

Step 1: Cook the Rice

Combine the rinsed jasmine rice with the spiced coconut milk in a rice cooker or pot. If using a pot, ensure it has a tight-fitting lid and keep it on low heat until the rice is soft and fragrant. For precise cooking duration, consider using a cooking timer to track 15-20 minutes of cooking time.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat the coconut oil in a large wok over medium heat. Add the garlic and shallots, stirring until they become golden brown. Then add the red chili and shrimp, stirring quickly just until the shrimp turns pink and opaque. Remove from the wok and set aside.

Step 3: Cook Tofu and Vegetables

In the same wok, add more coconut oil if needed, and toss in the cubed tofu, green beans, and kaffir lime leaves. Stir-fry until the green beans are tender-crisp, approximately 5 minutes.

Step 4: Mix and Season

Add the cooked rice to the wok, stirring gently to combine with the vegetables and tofu. Sprinkle the gula melaka, sea salt, and lime juice over the mixture, tossing until well coated and heated through.

Step 5: Finishing Touches

Fold in the bean sprouts and cooked shrimp just before removing from heat. Adjust seasoning with more sea salt or lime juice to taste.

How to Enjoy Bali Harvest Rasa

Serve your delightful Bali Harvest Rasa in a large communal platter, garnished with coriander leaves and a generous sprinkle of crushed peanuts. Traditionally, this dish is served family-style, inviting everyone to partake and savor the diverse flavors together. Enjoy with a chilled Balinese herbal tea or ginger-infused drink for a truly authentic experience. Let each bite transport you to the picturesque landscapes of Bali, where every meal is an expression of the island’s lush natural bounty and vibrant cultural tapestry.