One of the first things you’ll notice in Bali is its incredibly vibrant colors. Nowhere is this more true than in its food. Exploring the world of fascinating tropical fruits in Bali is a delicious adventure for your senses. You will be surrounded by a dazzling array of strange and wonderful fruits. You may have never seen them before. This happens everywhere, from the breakfast buffet at Merusaka Nusa Dua to the bustling local markets.
But what are they, and how do you eat them? Don’t be shy! As your friendly hosts, we created this simple guide. It will help you identify, peel, and enjoy some of the island’s most luscious and iconic fruits.
1. The Queen of Fruits: Mangosteen (Manggis)
This is often the first fruit people love. It’s for good reason! People hail it as the “Queen of Fruits” for its exquisite flavor.
What it Looks Like: A small, round fruit with a thick, leathery, deep purple rind. It also has a green leafy cap.
How to Eat It: Don’t use a knife! Simply hold the fruit in both hands. Then, gently press or twist the middle. The rind will crack open cleanly. This reveals the delicate, snow-white segments inside. Just be careful, the purple juice can stain!
What it Tastes Like: It has a perfect blend of sweet and slightly tangy flavor. The soft, juicy texture melts in your mouth. It is incredibly refreshing.
2. The Hairy One: Rambutan
The name “rambutan” comes from the Indonesian word for hair (rambut). You’ll immediately see why. This is a fun and delicious fruit. It is a favorite with children.
What it Looks Like: An oval fruit the size of a golf ball. It is covered in soft, spiky-looking red or yellow “hairs.”
How to Eat It: You can either twist the skin open with your hands. Or, you can slice through the leathery skin with a knife. Don’t slice all the way through, though. Just pop the fruit out. Be aware there is a seed in the middle.
What it Tastes Like: The translucent white flesh is juicy and sweet. It is very similar to a lychee or a fresh grape.
3. The Scaly One: Salak (Snake Fruit)
Don’t be put off by the strange exterior! Salak, or Snake Fruit, is one of Bali’s most unique and iconic fruits.
What it Looks Like: The fruit grows in a cluster. It is at the base of a palm tree. It has a brittle, reddish-brown skin. The skin looks remarkably like snake scales.
How to Eat It: Simply pinch the tip of the fruit. Then, peel the scaly skin back. It will come off easily. This reveals three pale yellow lobes.
What it Tastes Like: The texture makes it so unique. It’s crunchy, firm, and moist. It is similar to a crisp apple. The flavor is a wonderful mix of sweet and tart. It often has a hint of pineapple or citrus.
4. The Vibrant One: Dragon Fruit (Buah Naga)
You can’t miss this one! Dragon Fruit is arguably the most beautiful and “Instagrammable” fruit on the planet.
What it Looks Like: A stunningly vibrant, magenta-pink orb. It has soft green scales. The flesh inside is either white or an equally brilliant magenta. It is dotted with tiny, edible black seeds.
How to Eat It: Simply slice it in half lengthwise. Scoop out the flesh with a spoon. You can also peel the skin back and slice it into cubes.
What it Tastes Like: The flavor is surprisingly mild and delicate. It’s gently sweet and very refreshing. Its texture is a cross between a kiwi and a pear.
5. The King of Fruits: Durian (A Daring Adventure!)
Ah, the Durian. This is the most famous and infamous fruit in all of Southeast Asia. You will likely smell it before you see it!
What it Looks Like: A large, heavy, formidable-looking green husk. It is covered in sharp spikes.
How to Eat It: For beginners, we highly recommend buying it pre-opened. Find a trusted street-side vendor. They can choose a good one for you.
What it Tastes Like: People are fiercely divided on this. The texture is a thick, rich, and creamy custard. The flavor is unlike anything else. It is intensely sweet, savory, and complex all at once. You’ll either fall in love with it instantly. Or you will decide once was enough. Either way, it’s an unforgettable Bali experience!
Where to Find Your Fruit Adventure
Ready to start tasting? You can find these fascinating treasures all over the island.
- At Our Breakfast Buffet: The easiest way to start is right here at Merusaka. Our daily breakfast buffet features a beautiful selection of fresh, seasonal tropical fruits in Bali. We prepare them perfectly for you to sample.
- Local Markets & Stalls: For the full, authentic experience, ask our Concierge team to recommend a local fruit market (pasar buah). Here you can see, smell, and taste an even wider variety. You will also experience a slice of local life.
Exploring Bali’s fruit is a delicious journey. Be adventurous, try something new, and enjoy the incredible natural bounty of the island!
