Skip to content
eatmundo

Indonesia · Drinks

Bandrek

15 min
100 kcal
2 servings

By eatmundo · August 4, 2026

Bandrek🇮🇩AI-generated image

Same ingredients, elsewhere in the world

3 matches

Dishes from other countries' kitchens, made from the same core ingredients as Bandrek. The percentage is the share of ingredients the two recipes have in common.

Same technique: Hot infusion62 recipes from 22 countries

A traditional warming Indonesian beverage from West Java, perfect for chilly weather. It combines the heat of fresh ginger with the sweetness of palm sugar and aromatic spices.

According to eatmundo's ingredient comparison, the closest dish to Bandrek from another cuisine is Pandan Drink (Thailand): the two share 57% of their ingredients.

Ingredients

tick what you already have - the rest goes on your shopping list
2 servings

How to Make It

  • 1

    Clean 100g of ginger thoroughly, then lightly bruise it with the flat side of a knife to release its oils.

  • 2

    Pour 600ml of water into a small pot and bring it to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.

  • 3

    Add the bruised ginger, 2 stalks of bruised lemongrass, 1 cinnamon stick, and 2 knotted pandan leaves to the water.

  • 4

    Reduce the heat to low and let the spices steep for 10 minutes; the water will take on a beautiful golden hue.

  • 5

    Stir in 50g of grated palm sugar until completely dissolved, being careful not to let the liquid boil over.

  • 6

    Once the aroma fills your kitchen and the sugar is incorporated, turn off the heat and let it rest for 2 minutes.

  • 7

    Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into heat-proof glasses.

  • 8

    Serve immediately while piping hot to enjoy the spicy, soothing warmth of the ginger.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Bandrek?

Bandrek is a traditional Indonesian hot beverage prepared from ginger, palm sugar, and spices such as cinnamon, lemongrass, and pandan leaves. It is typically consumed in cold weather or at night to warm the body.

Can I use ground ginger instead of fresh?

Fresh ginger is highly recommended for its unique spicy punch and depth, which ground ginger cannot replicate.

What is the role of the pandan leaf?

Pandan provides a subtle, sweet, grassy aroma that balances the sharpness of the ginger beautifully.

Is it okay to use white sugar?

While technically possible, palm sugar adds a characteristic caramel-like depth that is essential to the authentic taste.

Can I add milk?

Yes, adding condensed milk or coconut milk creates a version known as Bandrek Susu, which is very popular.

Keep exploring