Hot Beverages > Indonesian Beverages > Bandrek

Bandrek with Ginger and Lemongrass Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups water
- 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
- 2 inches ginger, peeled and sliced
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 2 cloves
- 2 cardamom pods
- 2 tablespoons palm sugar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup coconut milk

Special equipment needed:
- Saucepan
- Strainer
- Mugs or glasses

Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a saucepan, combine water, lemongrass, ginger, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and cardamom pods. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
2. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add palm sugar, honey, and salt. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
4. Add coconut milk and stir until well combined.
5. Simmer for another 5 minutes.
6. Strain the mixture into mugs or glasses.
7. Serve hot.


Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Temperature:
Medium heat for boiling, low heat for simmering
Serving size:
This recipe makes 2 servings.

Nutritional information:
Calories: 158
Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 1g
Sodium: 156mg
Sugar: 18g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Brown sugar can be used instead of palm sugar.
- Maple syrup can be used instead of honey.
- Soy milk can be used instead of coconut milk.

Variations:
- Add pandan leaves for a more fragrant flavor.
- Add black pepper for a spicy kick.
- Add a splash of lime juice for a tangy taste.

Tips and tricks:
- Bruise the lemongrass by hitting it with the back of a knife to release its flavor.
- Use fresh ginger for a more intense flavor.
- Adjust the sweetness and saltiness to your liking.

Storage instructions:
Store any leftover bandrek in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
Reheat the bandrek in a saucepan over low heat until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
Serve the bandrek in clear mugs or glasses to show off its beautiful color and texture.

Garnishes:
Garnish with a cinnamon stick or a slice of ginger.

Pairings:
Bandrek goes well with traditional Indonesian snacks such as fried bananas or cassava chips.

Suggested side dishes:
Serve with a plate of fresh fruits such as sliced mangoes or papayas.

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the bandrek is too sweet, add more water to dilute it.
- If the bandrek is too salty, add more honey or palm sugar to balance it out.

Food safety advice:
Make sure to use fresh and clean ingredients to avoid any contamination.

Food history:
Bandrek is a traditional Indonesian hot drink that originated from West Java. It is usually served during cold weather or after a meal.

Flavor profiles:
Bandrek has a sweet and spicy flavor with a hint of lemongrass and ginger.

Serving suggestions:
Serve hot as a comforting drink.

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Region: Indonesian

Taste: Spicy, Sweet, Herbal, Citrusy