How to Make Korean Beverages Like a Local Chef

When it comes to Korean cuisine, drinks play an essential role in enhancing the dining experience. From refreshing teas to satisfying fermented beverages, learning how to make Korean drinks at home can transport you straight to a bustling Seoul street market. Below are some popular Korean beverages that you can easily prepare like a local chef.

1. Sujeonggwa (Cinnamon Persimmon Punch)

Sujeonggwa is a traditional Korean punch made with cinnamon, dried persimmons, and ginger. It is both fragrant and sweet, making it a delightful choice for special occasions.

Ingredients:

  • 5 cups of water
  • 3 pieces of dried persimmons
  • 1 stick of cinnamon
  • 2 slices of fresh ginger
  • 1/2 cup of sugar (adjust to taste)
  • Ice cubes (for serving)
  • Walnuts (for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. In a pot, boil the water and add the dried persimmons, cinnamon, and ginger.
  2. Simmer for about 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  3. Stir in the sugar until dissolved, then remove from heat.
  4. Let the mixture cool, and then strain it into a pitcher.
  5. Chill in the refrigerator before serving.
  6. Serve over ice, garnished with walnuts on top.

2. Sikhye (Sweet Fermented Rice Drink)

Sikhye is a sweetened beverage made from fermented cooked rice. It boasts a unique flavor and is often served as a dessert drink in Korea.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup of cooked rice
  • 8 cups of water
  • 1/2 cup of barley malt powder
  • 1/2 cup of sugar
  • 2-3 pine nuts (for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, combine the water and barley malt powder. Stir well and let it steep for about 30 minutes.
  2. Strain the mixture into another pot, then add the cooked rice.
  3. Simmer for about 30 minutes, ensuring the rice floats to the top.
  4. Stir in the sugar, and allow it to cool.
  5. Transfer to the refrigerator for several hours or overnight to ferment.
  6. Serve chilled, garnished with pine nuts.

3. Omija Cha (Five Flavor Tea)

Omija Cha is a tea made from the dried fruits of Schisandra chinensis, often referred to as the 'five-flavor fruit' because it has sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and pungent notes.

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup dried omija (five flavor fruit)
  • 4 cups of water
  • Honey or sugar (to taste)
  • Ice (for serving)

Instructions:

  1. In a pot, bring the water to a boil.
  2. Add the dried omija and simmer for about 15 minutes.
  3. Strain the tea into a jug and let it cool.
  4. Add honey or sugar to taste, depending on your preference.
  5. Serve over ice for a refreshing summer drink.

4. Baesuk (Pear Punch)

Baesuk is a sweet and aromatic drink made with Asian pears, ginger, and honey. It’s often consumed during colder months for its warming properties.

Ingredients:

  • 2 ripe Asian pears
  • 4 cups of water
  • 1 tablespoon of ginger (sliced or grated)
  • 1/4 cup of honey (adjust to taste)

Instructions:

  1. Peel and core the Asian pears, then slice them.
  2. In a pot, combine the water, pears, ginger, and honey.
  3. Bring to a boil, and then lower the heat to simmer for 15-20 minutes.
  4. Strain the liquid and discard the solids.
  5. Serve warm or chilled.