Kecap Manis (Indonesian Sweet Soy Sauce)

5 steps. Take it one step at a time.

1. 01

   Combine the chopped palm sugar, soy sauce, and water

   In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped palm sugar, soy sauce, and water.

2. 02

   Add the smashed garlic, sliced ginger, and star anise

   Add the smashed garlic, sliced ginger, and star anise to the mixture.

3. 03

   Place the saucepan

   Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the liquid to a gentle boil, stirring frequently to ensure the sugar is fully dissolved.

4. 04

   Reduce the heat to low and simmer

   Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20 to 30 minutes. The sauce is ready when it has reduced slightly and coats the back of a spoon with a syrupy consistency.

   30 min
5. 05

   Remove from heat and let the sauce cool

   Remove from heat and let the sauce cool. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the aromatics before transferring to a glass bottle or jar.