Hot Beverages > Indonesian Beverages > Bandrek

Bandrek with Saffron and Almonds Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 cups water
- 1 cup palm sugar
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 4 cloves
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp saffron threads
- 1/2 cup blanched almonds, chopped

Special equipment needed:
- Saucepan
- Strainer
- Serving mugs

Step-by-step instructions:

1. In a saucepan, combine water, palm sugar, cinnamon sticks, cloves, ginger, cardamom, nutmeg, and saffron threads. Bring to a boil over medium heat.

2. Reduce heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 15 minutes.

3. Strain the mixture into a clean saucepan, discarding the solids.

4. Add chopped almonds to the saucepan and let it simmer for another 5 minutes.

5. Remove from heat and let it cool for a few minutes.

6. Pour the bandrek into serving mugs and serve hot.


Time:
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
Medium heat for boiling, low heat for simmering
Serving size:
4 servings

Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 180
Total fat: 6g
Saturated fat: 0.5g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 10mg
Total carbohydrates: 33g
Dietary fiber: 2g
Sugars: 28g
Protein: 2g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Brown sugar can be used instead of palm sugar.
- Cashews or pistachios can be used instead of almonds.

Variations:
- Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract for a different flavor.
- Add a tablespoon of grated coconut for a tropical twist.

Tips and tricks:
- Use a strainer with small holes to ensure that no solids remain in the bandrek.
- Adjust the sweetness to your liking by adding more or less sugar.
- Serve with a cinnamon stick for added flavor and presentation.

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 glass mugs to show off the beautiful saffron threads.

Garnishes:
Sprinkle some ground cinnamon or nutmeg on top of the bandrek for added flavor and presentation.

Pairings:
Serve the bandrek with some traditional Indonesian snacks such as fried bananas or cassava chips.

Suggested side dishes:
No side dishes needed.

Troubleshooting advice:
If the bandrek is too sweet, add more water to dilute the sweetness.

Food safety advice:
Make sure to use clean utensils and cookware when making the bandrek to prevent contamination.

Food history:
Bandrek is a traditional Indonesian beverage that is typically served during cold weather. It is believed to have originated from West Java.

Flavor profiles:
The bandrek has a sweet and spicy flavor with a hint of saffron and cinnamon.

Serving suggestions:
Serve the bandrek as a warm and comforting beverage during cold weather.

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Region: Indonesian

Taste: Sweet, Nutty, Aromatic, Spicy