Babi guling - roasted suckling pig

babi_guling_-_roasted_suckling_pig

Indonesian cuisine is known for its vibrant flavors and exotic combinations of spices and ingredients. One dish that exemplifies the richness and diversity of Indonesian cuisine is Babi guling or roasted suckling pig. Babi guling is a dish that originates from the island of Bali, and it has become a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

Babi guling is a whole pig that is roasted over an open fire or charcoal. The pig is cooked until it is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. The skin is especially prized in this dish as it is crispy and salty, but the meat is also incredibly flavorful due to the spices and herbs that are rubbed inside the pig before roasting.

The preparation of babi guling is a ritualistic affair that involves a lot of attention to detail. Many families in Bali have their own secret recipes that have been passed down for generations. The preparation of babi guling typically takes several hours, and it requires a team of skilled chefs to properly roast the pig.

The first step in preparing babi guling is to clean the pig thoroughly. The pig is then stuffed with a mixture of spices and herbs, including garlic, ginger, lemongrass, turmeric, and chili. Other ingredients such as shallots and galangal can also be added for additional flavor. The stuffing is spread generously throughout the pig’s cavity, ensuring that every inch of the meat is infused with flavor.

Once the pig has been stuffed, it is sewn up and placed on a spit, which is then inserted into the pig’s body. The pig is then roasted over an open fire or charcoal, and it is slowly turned to ensure that all sides are cooked evenly. As the pig roasts, the chefs baste it with a mixture of coconut oil and spices, which adds another layer of flavor to the dish.

When the pig is fully cooked, it is taken off the spit and allowed to cool for a few minutes before being carved. The skin is then carefully removed and chopped into small pieces, which are served alongside the meat. The meat is typically served with rice and vegetables, and it is often accompanied by a spicy sambal sauce.

Babi guling is a dish that is often served during special occasions and celebrations, such as weddings and festivals. It is a dish that brings people together, and it is a symbol of the rich culinary traditions of Bali. If you are looking to experience the true flavors of Indonesian cuisine, then you must try babi guling at least once in your life. It is a dish that will leave you feeling satisfied, invigorated, and completely in love with the vibrant and exotic flavors of Bali.

Ingredients:

  • 1 whole suckling pig, cleaned and skin pricked
  • 2 shallots, chopped
  • 6 cloves garlic, chopped
  • 6 red chillies, sliced
  • 3 lemongrass stalks, bruised
  • 3 kaffir lime leaves, torn
  • 3 tbsp. turmeric powder
  • 2 tbsp. coriander seeds, roasted and ground
  • 1 tbsp. salt
  • 1 tbsp. sugar
  • 2 tbsp. vegetable oil
  • 2 limes, sliced

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F.

  2. In a food processor, blend together shallots, garlic, chillies, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, turmeric powder, coriander seeds, salt, sugar, and vegetable oil to make the spice paste.

  3. Rub the spice paste all over the suckling pig, making sure to cover it evenly.

  4. Place the suckling pig on a roasting tray and roast in the oven for 2-3 hours, until the skin is crispy and golden brown and the meat is cooked through.

  5. Baste the pig occasionally with its own juices during the roasting process.

  6. Once the pig is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes.

  7. Serve the roasted suckling pig on a large platter, garnished with sliced limes.

Enjoy your delicious Indonesian Babi guling!