Indonesian Bandrek
A warming Sundanese drink made by steeping fresh ginger, palm sugar, lemongrass, pandan, cinnamon, and cloves.
Equipment
- Medium saucepan with lid
- Fine-mesh strainer
- Wooden spoon
- Heatproof pitcher
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
Bandrek
- 6 cups water
- 4 oz fresh ginger thickly sliced and bruised
- 3/4 cup grated palm sugar or to taste
- 2 stalks lemongrass bruised and cut in half
- 2 leaves pandan knotted
- 2 sticks cinnamon
- 6 whole cloves
- 1/4 tsp fine salt
Instructions
Simmer:
- Combine the water, ginger, palm sugar, lemongrass, pandan, cinnamon, cloves, and salt in a saucepan.
- Bring just to a boil, reduce the heat, and simmer uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes until fragrant and warmly spiced.
Steep and Serve:
- Remove from the heat, cover, and steep for 10 minutes.
- Strain through a fine-mesh strainer, taste for sweetness, and serve hot in small cups.
Notes
- Indonesian palm sugar contributes caramel depth; dark brown sugar is a workable substitute.
- For a richer variation, add a little coconut milk to individual cups rather than to the whole pot.
Nutrition
Calories: 100kcalCarbohydrates: 25gSodium: 105mgSugar: 24g