Sweet Soy Sauce
Condiments
Nutri-ScoreA

Sweet Soy Sauce

Glycine max

Clinical Encyclopedia

Sweet soy sauce, also known as 'kecap manis', is a thick, syrupy condiment made from fermented soybeans, sugar, and spices. It is commonly used in Asian cuisine to add sweetness and depth of flavor to dishes.

Also known as:
kecap manis (Indonesia)sweet soy (USA)
Scientific NameGlycine max
Region of OriginIndonesia

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories53 kcal
Water
80%
Fiber0g
Total14.5g
Protein
6g(41%)
Fats
0.5g(3%)
Carbohydrates
8g(55%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin b1 (thiamine)0.1 mg (8%)
Vitamin b2 (riboflavin)0.1 mg (6%)
Vitamin b3 (niacin)0.5 mg (3%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DV
Folate: 2 mcg

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Sodium800 mg (35%)
Potassium100 mg (3%)
Iron0.5 mg (3%)
Minerals with less than 2% DV
Calcium: 5 mg

Health Benefits

Rich in umami flavor, sweet soy sauce enhances the taste of various dishes, making them more palatable and enjoyable.
Contains antioxidants from soy, which may help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!High sodium content may pose risks for individuals with hypertension or cardiovascular issues. Moderation is advised.

How to Prepare & Consume

Best used as a marinade, dipping sauce, or glaze for meats and vegetables. Can also be added to stir-fries and dressings.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose a brand that uses natural ingredients and has a rich, dark color for the best flavor.

How to Store

Keep it in a cool, dark place and refrigerate after opening to maintain freshness.

Medicinal Profile & Bioactive Compounds

Therapeutic properties, key bioactive compounds, and clinical applications of this food.

Medicinal Properties
AntioxidantAnti-inflammatory
Main Applications
Flavor enhancer in cooking
Marinade for meats and vegetables
Bioactive Compounds
Isoflavones

May help reduce the risk of certain chronic diseases.

How to Consume
Used as a condiment, marinade, or in cooking
Did you know?

"Sweet soy sauce is a staple in Indonesian cuisine and is often used in dishes like nasi goreng and satay."

Myths vs Realities

MythSweet soy sauce is only for Asian dishes.
RealitySweet soy sauce can enhance flavors in a variety of cuisines, not just Asian.
MythAll soy sauces are gluten-free.
RealityMost traditional soy sauces contain wheat; check labels for gluten-free options.
MythSweet soy sauce is unhealthy.
RealityWhile it contains sugar and sodium, it can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Healthy Recipes

Sweet Soy Glazed Salmon with Quinoa

This dish features tender salmon fillets glazed with sweet soy sauce, served over a bed of fluffy quinoa and steamed broccoli for a nutritious meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 salmon fillets
  • 2 tablespoons sweet soy sauce
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1 cup steamed broccoli
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. 2. Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet and brush with sweet soy sauce.
  3. 3. Bake for 12-15 minutes until cooked through, then serve over quinoa and broccoli, drizzled with sesame oil and topped with sesame seeds.

Sweet Soy Stir-Fried Tofu and Vegetables

A vibrant stir-fry featuring crispy tofu and colorful vegetables, all tossed in a delicious sweet soy sauce for a quick and healthy meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 block firm tofu, cubed
  • 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
  • 3 tablespoons sweet soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
Instructions
  1. 1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and add cubed tofu, cooking until golden brown.
  2. 2. Add ginger, garlic, and mixed vegetables, stir-frying for about 5 minutes.
  3. 3. Pour in sweet soy sauce and cook for an additional 2 minutes, then serve hot.

Sweet Soy Chicken Lettuce Wraps

These refreshing lettuce wraps are filled with ground chicken, vegetables, and a sweet soy sauce dressing, making them a light yet satisfying meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 pound ground chicken
  • 1 cup diced bell peppers
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 3 tablespoons sweet soy sauce
  • 1 head of butter lettuce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
  1. 1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and add ground chicken, cooking until browned.
  2. 2. Stir in bell peppers, carrots, and sweet soy sauce, cooking for another 5 minutes.
  3. 3. Spoon the mixture into lettuce leaves and serve immediately.

Sweet Soy Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts are roasted to perfection and tossed in a sweet soy sauce glaze, creating a delightful side dish that’s both healthy and flavorful.

Ingredients
  • 1 pound Brussels sprouts, halved
  • 3 tablespoons sweet soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. 2. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, sweet soy sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes until crispy and caramelized.

Sweet Soy and Ginger Glazed Carrots

These tender carrots are glazed with a sweet soy and ginger mixture, providing a delicious and healthy side dish that complements any meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 pound baby carrots
  • 2 tablespoons sweet soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions
  1. 1. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and add baby carrots.
  2. 2. Stir in sweet soy sauce, grated ginger, and honey, cooking until carrots are tender.
  3. 3. Serve warm as a side dish.

Sweet Soy Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Juicy shrimp marinated in sweet soy sauce and grilled to perfection, served with a side of brown rice for a healthy and satisfying meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 4 tablespoons sweet soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Skewers
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine shrimp, sweet soy sauce, olive oil, and garlic powder; marinate for 30 minutes.
  2. 2. Thread shrimp onto skewers and grill over medium heat for 2-3 minutes on each side.
  3. 3. Serve with brown rice and garnish with fresh herbs.

Sweet Soy Quinoa Salad

A nutritious salad made with quinoa, fresh vegetables, and a sweet soy dressing, perfect for a light lunch or dinner.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1 cup diced cucumber
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 3 tablespoons sweet soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes.
  2. 2. In a small bowl, whisk together sweet soy sauce and olive oil, then pour over the salad.
  3. 3. Toss gently to combine and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Sweet Soy and Garlic Cauliflower Rice

This low-carb alternative to traditional rice is made with cauliflower and flavored with sweet soy sauce and garlic, making it a healthy side dish.

Ingredients
  • 1 head cauliflower, grated into rice-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons sweet soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 green onion, chopped
Instructions
  1. 1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and add minced garlic, cooking until fragrant.
  2. 2. Add grated cauliflower and sweet soy sauce, stirring to combine and cooking for about 5 minutes.
  3. 3. Garnish with chopped green onion and serve warm.

Sweet Soy Baked Eggplant

Sliced eggplant baked with a sweet soy sauce glaze, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish that’s perfect as a side or main course.

Ingredients
  • 1 large eggplant, sliced
  • 4 tablespoons sweet soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 2. Arrange eggplant slices on a baking sheet and brush with olive oil and sweet soy sauce, sprinkling with paprika.
  3. 3. Bake for 25-30 minutes until tender, and garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Sweet Soy Fruit Salad

A refreshing fruit salad drizzled with a sweet soy sauce dressing, combining flavors for a unique and healthy dessert.

Ingredients
  • 2 cups mixed fresh fruits (melon, berries, kiwi)
  • 2 tablespoons sweet soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • Fresh mint for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine mixed fruits.
  2. 2. In a small bowl, whisk together sweet soy sauce and lime juice, then drizzle over the fruit.
  3. 3. Toss gently and garnish with fresh mint before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is sweet soy sauce made from?

Sweet soy sauce is made from fermented soybeans, sugar, and various spices.

How is sweet soy sauce different from regular soy sauce?

Sweet soy sauce is thicker and sweeter than regular soy sauce, which is saltier and more savory.

Can I use sweet soy sauce in place of regular soy sauce?

Yes, but it will alter the flavor profile, adding sweetness to the dish.

Is sweet soy sauce gluten-free?

Most sweet soy sauces contain wheat; however, gluten-free versions are available.

How should sweet soy sauce be stored?

Store sweet soy sauce in a cool, dark place, and refrigerate after opening.

Can sweet soy sauce be used in desserts?

Yes, it can add a unique flavor to certain desserts, especially Asian-inspired ones.

What dishes commonly use sweet soy sauce?

It is commonly used in stir-fries, marinades, and as a dipping sauce.

Is sweet soy sauce healthy?

In moderation, it can be part of a healthy diet, but be mindful of its sodium and sugar content.