🇮🇩 Indonesia · Food
Bebek Betutu
By eatmundo · August 4, 2026
🇮🇩 IDA celebrated Balinese dish featuring slow-cooked duck infused with a rich, aromatic spice paste. It is incredibly tender and packed with the deep flavors of turmeric and ginger.
Ingredients
check them off as you prepareHow to Make It
- 1
Blend the shallots, garlic, chilies, ginger, and turmeric into a fine paste using a food processor.
- 2
Heat 3 tablespoons of oil in a heavy-bottomed pan and sauté the spice paste until it smells fragrant and changes color, about 5 minutes.
- 3
Rub the spice paste thoroughly all over the duck legs, ensuring they are well-coated inside and out.
- 4
Place the coated duck legs in a steamer basket lined with banana leaves or parchment paper.
- 5
Add the bruised lemongrass stalks on top of the duck to infuse it with fresh citrus notes while cooking.
- 6
Steam the duck over medium heat for 90 minutes until the meat is fork-tender and pulls away easily from the bone.
- 7
Finish by roasting the duck in an oven at 200°C for 10 minutes to crisp the skin slightly before serving.
- 8
Serve the tender duck immediately with a side of steamed white rice and fresh sambal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken instead?+
Yes, 'Ayam Betutu' is the chicken version and is just as popular and authentic.
What is the secret to tender duck?+
Steaming for a long time at a steady temperature is the key to breaking down the duck's fat.
Are the spices too hot?+
The heat level depends on the chilies; remove the seeds if you prefer a milder flavor.
What do I serve this with?+
It is traditionally served with rice, plecing kangkung, and a spicy sambal matah.
🇮🇩 IDMundo Match
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