Indonesian Sweet Soy Sauce Kecap Manis Recipe

Elevate your dishes with homemade Kecap Manis! This Indonesian sweet soy sauce recipe is richer, sweeter, and more complex than store-bought versions. Learn how to make this intensely flavorful condiment, perfect for adding depth to stir-fries, marinades, and dipping sauces. This recipe, inspired by EatingWell magazine (July/August 1997), will transform your cooking! Impress your friends and family with this authentic Indonesian taste sensation.

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 30 mins
Calories 842.5 kcal
Protein 22g
Rating Be the first
Indonesian Sweet Soy Sauce Kecap Manis 45

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Forktionary editorial kitchen team

The Forktionary Kitchen Team

Adapted from Food.com, then tested & standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Indonesian Sweet Soy Sauce Kecap Manis

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How to Make Indonesian Sweet Soy Sauce Kecap Manis

  1. Prepare an ice bath: Half-fill a large bowl with water and ice cubes.
  2. Combine 1 cup granulated sugar and 1/2 cup water in a heavy 3-quart saucepan.
  3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves completely.
  4. Once boiling, cook undisturbed until the syrup turns a rich amber color (5-10 minutes).
  5. Immediately transfer the saucepan to the ice bath for about 30 seconds to stop the cooking process.
  6. Add 1 cup soy sauce, 2 star anise pods, and 2 cloves garlic to the cooled caramel.
  7. Return the pan to medium-high heat and bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
  8. Reduce heat to low and simmer gently for 10 minutes.
  9. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
  10. Remove and discard the garlic cloves and star anise pods.
  11. Transfer the Kecap Manis to a clean jar and refrigerate overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
  12. Enjoy your homemade Kecap Manis! Use it to add a burst of umami and sweetness to your favorite dishes.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

297 g

Sugar

764g

Fat

0g

Carbs

68g

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to make Indonesian Sweet Soy Sauce Kecap Manis?

Indonesian Sweet Soy Sauce Kecap Manis takes about 45 minutes from start to finish — roughly 15 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to cook.

How many calories are in Indonesian Sweet Soy Sauce Kecap Manis?

Indonesian Sweet Soy Sauce Kecap Manis has approximately 842.5 calories per serving, with about 22 g protein, 68 g carbohydrates and 0 g fat.

What ingredients do I need for Indonesian Sweet Soy Sauce Kecap Manis?

The key ingredients for Indonesian Sweet Soy Sauce Kecap Manis are Sugar, Water, Reduced Sodium Soy Sauce, Star Anise, Garlic Clove. See the full list with measurements above.

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