By Rajlakshmi
June 2, 2026
It has a rich, sweet-savoury taste and is often used in Indonesian and Southeast Asian cuisine. Here’s a recipe for how to make it at home.
2 ½ cups white sugar 3 cups dark soy sauce ½ cup water ½ star anise pod 1-inch fresh ginger roots, sliced 4 cloves garlic
In a large saucepan, cook sugar over medium-low heat until gently browned.
Slowly stir in soy sauce. Once the sugar and soy sauce are combined, stir in the water.
Add star anise, curry leaves, ginger and garlic. Increase the heat and bring to a boil.
Simmer for around 15 minutes, or until the sugar has been dissolved.
Remove from heat and let cool. Strain the sauce and transfer to a closed container or jar.