Easy-to-Make Korean Beverages for Busy People

Korean cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors and unique dishes, but did you know that it also offers a variety of refreshing beverages? Whether you're seeking a cooling drink in summer or warm comfort in winter, there’s a Korean beverage for every occasion. Here are some easy-to-make Korean beverages that busy people can whip up in no time.

1. Sujeonggwa (Cinnamon Persimmon Punch)

Sujeonggwa is a fragrant and sweet Korean punch made with dried persimmons, cinnamon, and ginger. This drink is perfect for serving during celebrations or as a special treat.

Ingredients: 4 cups water, 3 dried persimmons, 1 stick of cinnamon, 1 slice of ginger, honey or sugar to taste.

Instructions:

Boil water in a pot and add cinnamon stick and ginger.
Simmer for about 10 minutes.
Add dried persimmons and sweeten with honey or sugar.
Let it cool, then serve chilled or warm.

2. Sikhye (Sweet Rice Drink)

Sikhye is a traditional Korean sweet rice beverage that is both refreshing and nutritious. It’s often consumed as a dessert or a cooling drink in the summer.

Ingredients: 1 cup cooked sweet rice (or regular rice), 4 cups water, ½ cup sugar, pine nuts (optional).

Instructions:

Blend cooked sweet rice with water until smooth.
Pour the mixture into a pot and add sugar. Boil for about 10-15 minutes.
Let it cool, then serve chilled with pine nuts for garnish.

3. Omija Tea (Five-Flavor Berry Tea)

Omija tea is made from the dried berries of the Schisandra chinensis plant, known for its unique five flavors: sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and pungent. This tea is refreshing and can be enjoyed either hot or cold.

Ingredients: 1 cup dried omija berries, 4 cups water, honey or sugar to taste.

Instructions:

Boil water and add dried omija berries.
Simmer for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse.
Strain the tea and sweeten it as desired. Serve hot or chilled over ice.

4. Yulmucha (Job’s Tears Tea)

Yulmu-cha, made from Job’s Tears, is a nutritious grain tea that offers numerous health benefits. It’s particularly popular for its calming effects and is perfect for busy individuals looking for a moment of relaxation.

Ingredients: 1 cup Job’s Tears, 6 cups water.

Instructions:

Rinse Job’s Tears thoroughly and add them to boiling water.
Simmer for about 30 minutes.
Strain and serve warm or cold. It can be sweetened with honey if desired.

5. Tteok Su (Rice Cake Drink)

Tteok Su is a simple yet delightful drink made with sliced rice cakes and sugar. It’s often enjoyed during festive occasions but is easy to prepare at home.

Ingredients: 1 cup sliced rice cakes, 5 cups water, sugar to taste.

Instructions:

Bring water to a boil and add sliced rice cakes.
Cook until the rice cakes become soft (about 10 minutes).
Sweeten with sugar and serve warm.

These easy-to-make Korean beverages offer a delightful taste of Korea while accommodating your busy lifestyle. From refreshing punches to soothing teas, there’s something here for everyone. So why not take a few moments to treat yourself to a delicious Korean drink today?