Top Picks: Must-Try Brands for Authentic Kecap Manis Delight

Kecap manis, a staple in Indonesian cuisine, has captivated taste buds worldwide with its rich, sweet, and savory flavor profile. This syrupy soy sauce transforms dishes with just a few tablespoons, becoming an essential ingredient in various culinary traditions. From enhancing the flavor of Indonesian classics like nasi goreng to offering a unique depth to international recipes, kecap manis is a must-have in any kitchen pantry. For those eager to explore the best brands of kecap manis to elevate their cooking, read on to discover our top picks.

Illustration of kecap manis

Best brands of kecap manis in 2025

ABC

The ABC brand, owned by PT Heinz ABC Indonesia, is one of the leading producers of kecap manis, a sweet and syrupy soy sauce fundamental to Indonesian cuisine. Established in 1975, ABC has become a significant player in the global market, with its products exported to numerous countries including the US, Canada, and several Asian and European nations. As of 2010, kecap manis accounted for 90% of Indonesia's total soy sauce production, with ABC being one of the most recognized brands.

Bango

Bango is one of the leading and most popular brands for kecap manis in Indonesia, known for its high-quality and flavorful sweet soy sauce. As of 2016, Bango held a market share of 55.2%, significantly surpassing its competitors. The brand's success is attributed to its extensive distribution network and the unique blend of palm sugar, soy sauce, and spices, which gives it a thicker consistency and a sweeter, more full-bodied flavor. Bango's market dominance has been consistent, with its demand continuing to rise from 2012 to 2016, reflecting its strong consumer preference. This brand is widely recognized for its balanced taste, not too salty and not too sweet, making it a favorite among Indonesian consumers. For more insights into the Indonesian soy sauce market dynamics, check out this in-depth article.

Cap Ibu

Cap Bango, often referred to as one of the best producers of kecap manis, is a highly regarded brand in Indonesian cuisine. It is known for its thick, syrupy consistency and rich, sweet flavor, which is achieved by combining fermented soy sauce with a significant amount of palm sugar, accounting for up to 50% of the sauce's composition. This brand is particularly popular for its full-bodied flavor and is often preferred over other brands for its thicker consistency. As of 2010, kecap manis, including brands like Cap Bango, accounted for 90% of Indonesia's total soy sauce production. Cap Bango is widely available in the US and is a staple in many Indonesian kitchens. For a comprehensive guide to kecap manis, you can visit the link provided.

Sedap Wangi

Sedap Wangi, although not as widely mentioned as brands like ABC or Cap Bango, is a notable producer of kecap manis in Indonesia, known for its traditional methods and high-quality ingredients. Kecap manis from Sedap Wangi is made with a significant amount of palm sugar, contributing to its thick, syrupy consistency and rich flavor, similar to how kecap manis accounts for about 90% of Indonesia's total soy sauce production as of 2010. The sauce is enriched with spices like star anise, ginger, and cloves, enhancing its aromatic and umami flavors. Sedap Wangi's kecap manis is often used in various Indonesian dishes, including nasi goreng, mie goreng, and satay, highlighting its versatility and popularity. The brand's commitment to traditional fermentation processes and the use of natural ingredients makes it a favorite among those seeking authentic kecap manis.

Koningsvogel

Koningsvogel is a renowned brand in the Netherlands, celebrated for its high-quality Asian sauces and spices, including the popular Sambal Manis. While they are not specifically highlighted as kecap manis producers, their expertise in creating flavorful and authentic Indonesian-inspired sauces is well-regarded. Kecap manis, a sweet soy sauce, is a staple in Indonesian cuisine, often made with a mixture of soy sauce, palm sugar, and other spices, similar to the ingredients used in Koningsvogel's sambal sauces. Although Koningsvogel's primary focus is on sambal, their commitment to traditional Indonesian flavors aligns with the principles of kecap manis production. As of now, brands like Cap Bango and ABC are more commonly associated with kecap manis, but Koningsvogel's reputation in the Asian sauce market is significant.

Indofood

Indofood, through its diverse product lineup, stands out as a leading producer of kecap manis, a sweet soy sauce integral to Indonesian cuisine. In 2023, Indofood's net sales amounted to 111.7 trillion Indonesian rupiah, with its consumer branded products segment, which includes kecap manis, contributing significantly to this figure. The company's extensive reach and market penetration are evident from its household penetration rate close to 100 percent for its flagship brand, Indomie, and other products like kecap manis. Indofood's kecap manis is part of its broad range of condiments and seasonings that are highly preferred among Indonesian households. The company's commitment to innovation and local sourcing ensures a stable supply chain and high-quality products. For a detailed analysis, see the Indofood net sales by segment statistics.

Cap Ayam

Cap Ayam is a renowned brand in the production of kecap manis, a sweet and syrupy soy sauce that is a cornerstone of Indonesian cuisine. This brand, along with others like Cap Bango, dominates the market, with kecap manis accounting for approximately 90% of Indonesia's total soy sauce production as of 2010. Cap Ayam's kecap manis is made using natural fermentation processes, combined with palm sugar, which gives it a unique molasses-like flavor and thick, viscous consistency. The brand is part of a long tradition of family-owned businesses, often spanning multiple generations. Cap Ayam's product is widely used in various Indonesian dishes, including nasi goreng, mie goreng, and ayam kecap. For more insights into this flavorful condiment, check out this guide to kecap manis.

Angsa

Hati Angsa is a notable producer of kecap manis, known for its high-quality and traditional manufacturing processes. This brand, like others in Indonesia, uses a significant proportion of palm sugar, which accounts for the sauce's pronounced sweetness and syrupy consistency, with kecap manis making up about 90% of Indonesia's total soy sauce production as of 2010. The sauce is made by combining fermented soy sauce with melted palm sugar and various spices, resulting in a rich, deep black color and a unique aroma. Hati Angsa's kecap manis is often packaged in 600ml pouches and is recognized for its authentic flavor profile. However, it is important to note that some batches may contain undeclared allergens such as wheat, soy, gluten, and sulphite. For more information on potential allergens in Hati Angsa kecap manis, please visit the allergy alert page.

Hokkien

Kecap manis, Indonesia's sweet and syrupy soy sauce, is predominantly produced by well-known brands like Cap Bango and ABC, which are widely available in the US. These brands are part of a large industry where kecap manis accounts for 90% of Indonesia's total soy sauce production as of 2010. The sauce is made by combining fermented soy sauce with palm sugar, resulting in a thick, syrupy consistency and a rich, molasses-like flavor. Other notable brands include Indofood and Sedaap, which are also widely distributed throughout Indonesia. The traditional recipe involves natural fermentation processes and the addition of various spices. For a comprehensive understanding of kecap manis, including its production and culinary applications, check this guide to kecap manis.

Lee Kum Kee

Lee Kum Kee, a global leader in authentic Asian sauces since 1888, is not typically known for producing kecap manis, but it does offer a Sweet Soy Sauce that shares some similarities. This sweet soy sauce is brewed from premium soybeans and wheat flour, with a unique consistency and warm, deep color, making it ideal for seasoning and as a dipping sauce. While it does not use palm sugar like traditional kecap manis, it still offers a rich flavor profile. Lee Kum Kee's commitment to quality is evident in its strict manufacturing standards and global certifications. The company's products are available in various flavors and packaging, catering to different culinary needs.