Indonesian Bean Soup

Just as delicious

Everyone knows traditional Pinto Bean Soup, of course, but this Indonesian version is just as delicious (and maybe even better!).

This soup gets its distinctive flavor from authentic Indonesian ingredients such as kecap manis (or sweet soy sauce), crispy fried shallots, and, if you like a little heat, some sambal (chili paste). It’s not a dish you often see in traditional Dutch cooking, but thanks to the influence of the Indonesian community in the Netherlands, it has become firmly established in Dutch food culture.

An Indonesian twist

What makes Indonesian Pinto Bean Soup so special is the use of kecap manis. This is a thick, sweet Indonesian soy sauce with a distinctive flavor that’s widely used in Indonesian cooking. Its syrupy texture and rich flavor come from palm sugar and spices like star anise and cloves.

Sweet soy sauce gives the soup a rich, deep flavor that you won’t find in the traditional version. If you can’t find kecap manis, you can use a sweet soy sauce instead. Just make sure to choose a thick, syrupy variety, as thinner versions won’t provide the same flavor and texture.

If you don’t have either on hand, you can easily make a substitute at home. In this recipe, we use 3 tablespoons kecap manis. You can replace it with a mix of 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 tablespoon molasses, and 1 tablespoon brown sugar. You can make this ahead of time if you want the sauce to thicken slightly, but that’s not required.

Fried onions, often used as a topping, add a crispy, savory bite that pairs perfectly with the soft, creamy beans. And if you like a little extra heat, sambal is a must. It completes the soup and gives the dish a true Indonesian touch.

A dish with history

Indonesian Pinto Bean Soup is a typical Dutch-Indonesian dish that dates back to the period after World War II, when many people moved from Indonesia to the Netherlands. This soup is a great example of how Indonesian cuisine blended with Dutch traditions, creating a new food culture. Similar dishes include Indonesian Macaroni and Kimlo.

Quick and easy

One of the best things about this soup is that you can have it on the table in just 30 minutes. There’s no need to cook the pinto beans for hours, since most recipes use canned beans or ready-to-use dried beans that cook quickly. This makes it an ideal soup for busy weeknights, but also for a casual dinner with friends or family.

The combination of the rich flavor of sweet soy sauce, the savory crispy fried shallots, and the hearty pinto beans makes this a dish everyone can enjoy. With this Indonesian Bean Soup, you’re bringing a little piece of history and plenty of flavor to the table, all in a dish that’s quick to make and incredibly delicious. Try it for yourself and discover why this dish is becoming increasingly popular!

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