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Ayam Betutu is a whole chicken marinated in base genep, Bali’s traditional spice paste made from dozens of ingredients like turmeric, ginger, galangal, shallots, garlic, chilies, candlenuts, and aromatic herbs. Once the chicken is generously coated with the spice paste, it is wrapped in banana or coconut leaves and slow-cooked—either steamed or roasted for several hours.
The result ? Incredibly tender chicken, falling off the bone, with a spicy and deeply aromatic flavor that seeps through every bite.
Ayam Betutu is a signature Balinese dish originating from Gianyar, a cultural heartland of Bali. The history of Ayam Betutu can be traced back to 1976, when it was first crafted by Ni Wayan Tempeh—affectionately known as Men Tempeh—from Abiansi, Gianyar. Together with her husband, I Nyoman Suratna from Bangli, she founded the now-famous Ayam Betutu warung, which helped popularize this iconic dish throughout Bali.
The word Betutu itself comes from two Balinese words: be, meaning meat, and tunu, meaning to roast or burn. Betutu means “roasted meat.” Traditionally, Ayam Betutu is made by marinating a whole chicken in base genep—a rich, complex Balinese spice blend—before wrapping it in pinang (areca) leaves and slow-cooking it over embers of rice husks. This slow-roasting technique infuses the meat with deep, smoky, and spicy flavors.
Ayam Betutu is not just a dish, it’s an integral part of Balinese culture, deeply rooted in the island’s spiritual and communal life. Historically, Betutu was a dish reserved for important occasions, prepared with patience and care as a symbol of devotion. Its complex preparation process—using fresh local spices ground by hand, slow-cooking over hours—reflects the Balinese philosophy of ngayah, a sincere offering of time and effort in service to the community or the gods.
Traditionally, Ayam Betutu is prepared for temple ceremonies (odalan), weddings, coming-of-age rituals, and other significant milestones in the Balinese calendar. It is often used as an offering (banten) in ceremonies, where the dish represents abundance, gratitude, and the hope for prosperity and blessings.
Beyond its ceremonial use, Ayam Betutu embodies the communal spirit of Bali: preparing Betutu is usually a collective activity involving several family members or villagers. The process becomes a social moment, reinforcing bonds and sharing stories while cooking—a tradition that helps preserve recipes passed down through generations.
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If you’re planning a trip to Bali and want to experience the island’s authentic flavors like Ayam Betutu while enjoying the comfort and luxury of a private villa, All Villas offers a stunning selection of properties across Bali. All Villas have the perfect accommodation to complement your culinary adventures. Stay close to Bali’s best dining spots and enjoy your own private sanctuary with All Villas — your gateway to an unforgettable Balinese experience.
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