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Looking to beat the heat in Bali? Skip the standard cold drinks and try these traditional Balinese iced beverages instead. Packed with unique flavors you won’t find anywhere else, these drinks perfectly capture the island’s tropical vibes. Let’s check out what makes each one a refreshing treat!
1. Daluman Ice
Daluman Ice is a refreshing treat made with green grass jelly (daluman), coconut milk, and palm sugar. This drink is not just a thirst-quencher but also packed with cooling properties that’ll help you beat the Bali heat in no time.
Fun Fact: Daluman ice isn’t just tasty; it’s also believed to have health benefits! The green jelly, made from the daluman plant, is said to help soothe sore throats and cool down the body. Locals in Bali often enjoy this drink to beat the tropical heat, believing it helps keep their body temperature in check.
2. Kuwut Ice
Kuwut ice is a refreshing Balinese drink made from coconut water, fresh fruits like cantaloupe or melon, basil seeds, and tender young coconut meat. It’s often flavored with a hint of pandan or a splash of lime for that extra zing.
Fun Fact: This drink pairs perfectly with light, refreshing dishes like salads, seafood, or spicy Balinese cuisine. The balance of sweet and citrusy flavors in Kuwut ice complements these foods, enhancing their taste while cooling you down.
3. Es Bir
Don’t be fooled by the name—Es Bir is not your typical Bintang beer on ice. Despite its name, this traditional Balinese drink contains no alcohol. Es Bir is similar to Es Kelapa Muda but features a twist of lime juice, making it super refreshing, especially after sunbathing or water sports.
Fun Fact: Locals in North Bali (Buleleng) commonly serve Es Bir in warungs or shops, perfect for cooling down on sunny days.
4. Rujak Bir
Rujak Bir is another coconut-based drink beloved by the Balinese. Despite its name, it has nothing to do with alcohol. The drink blends water, sugar, young coconut shavings, and lime juice into a refreshing beverage. If you’re in Klungkung, head to the Senggol Market to try this refreshing treat.
Fun Fact: Rujak Bir is often paired with Serombotan, a spicy Balinese vegetable dish with coconut and seasonings.
5. Es Gula
Es Gula is as simple as it sounds—made from melted sugar mixed with water, ice cubes, and sometimes syrup. Despite its simplicity, this drink brings maximum refreshment, especially on a hot day in Bali. This no-fuss treat packs a cool punch, making it a favorite in Balinese eateries on hot days.
Fun Fact: Es Gula perfectly complements spicy Balinese dishes like rujak, tipat cantok, and serombotan, offering a cooling effect.
6. Kolak Ancruk Ice
Kolak Ancruk Ice is a refreshing traditional Balinese drink from Singaraja, packed with a variety of ingredients like compote, ancruk (similar to jenang grendul from Java), marrow porridge, kolang kaling, shaved ice, syrup, agar-agar, and a rich coconut milk sauce. The drink’s compote actively combines ripe banana pieces, granulated sugar, pandan leaves, and coconut milk, creating a sweet and creamy delight.
Fun Fact: Kolak Ancruk is a traditional drink from Singaraja, also known as Balinese kolak. Warung Es Ancruk Pak Jana has been serving this refreshing treat since 1994, a favorite spot for locals and tourists.
7. Tambring
Tambring is a traditional Balinese drink that uses coconut as its main ingredient, giving it a unique twist. Unlike kopyor ice, which mixes coconut water with syrup for sweetness, Tambring combines coconut water with Javanese tamarind, creating a sweet and tangy flavor. What sets it apart is the addition of egg white, which adds a distinctive texture. Tourists love this drink for its refreshing taste, perfect for cooling down in Bali’s tropical heat.
Fun fact: Tambring ice is believed to help with symptoms of internal heat, thanks to the benefits of tamarind, which optimizes digestive function. Tamarind actively boosts the immune system, making this drink both refreshing and beneficial for overall health.
No matter if you’re into sweet, sour, or a blend of both, these traditional Balinese iced drinks offer the perfect way to cool off. They’re not just refreshing; they bring a slice of Balinese culture to every sip. So, when you’re in Bali next time, don’t miss out on these unique beverages—let their flavors give you a true taste of the island! – Kura Kura Bus
