Popular Korean Beverages You Can Make Easily at Home

Korean cuisine is renowned for its variety, with beverages that are just as exciting as the food. Whether you want to enjoy a refreshing drink or try your hand at crafting your own Korean beverages at home, there are plenty of options. Below are some popular Korean drinks that are easy to make and perfect for any occasion.

1. Sikhye (식혜)

Sikhye is a traditional Korean sweet rice drink made with fermented malt and cooked rice. It's usually served chilled and is especially popular during the summer months.

Ingredients: 1 cup cooked sweet rice, 4 cups water, 1/4 cup malt powder, and sugar to taste.

Instructions:

In a pot, combine cooked sweet rice and water. Bring to a boil.
Reduce heat and let simmer for about 30 minutes.
In a separate bowl, mix malt powder with a little bit of warm water to create a smooth paste.
Once the rice blend is ready, remove from heat and cool slightly. Then stir in the malt mixture.
Let the mixture ferment for about 4-6 hours at room temperature, then store it in the fridge.
Add sugar to taste before serving chilled.

2. Sujeonggwa (수정과)

Sujeonggwa is a traditional Korean cinnamon punch made from dried persimmons, ginger, and cinnamon. This beautiful beverage is not only delicious but also offers a warming effect during the cold months.

Ingredients: 4 cups water, 1/2 cup dried persimmons, 1 cinnamon stick, and 1 tablespoon grated ginger, along with sugar to taste.

Instructions:

In a pot, combine water, dried persimmons, cinnamon stick, and ginger. Bring to a boil.
Once boiling, reduce heat and simmer for about 20-30 minutes.
Remove from heat and let it cool. Strain the liquid into a pitcher.
Add sugar to taste and serve chilled or at room temperature. Optionally, garnish with pine nuts.

3. Omija Cha (오미자차)

Omija Cha, or five-flavor tea, is derived from the omija berry, known for its sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and pungent flavors. This tea is not just refreshing but also packed with health benefits.

Ingredients: 1/2 cup dried omija berries, 4 cups water, and honey or sugar to taste.

Instructions:

Rinse the dried omija berries under cold water.
In a pot, bring the water to a boil and add the omija berries. Simmer for about 15-20 minutes.
Strain the mixture and let it cool.
Add honey or sugar to taste before serving. Serve chilled over ice or warm, depending on your preference.

4. Iced Barley Tea (보리차)

Thermal summer days call for a refreshing drink, and iced barley tea is a perfect choice. Known as 'bori-cha' in Korea, this nutty tea is easy to prepare.

Ingredients: 1/2 cup roasted barley and 4 cups water.

Instructions:

Add roasted barley to a pot with water and bring to a boil.
Simmer for about 20 minutes, then remove from heat.
Let it cool and strain the tea into a pitcher.
Serve over ice for a refreshing drink.

5. Banana Milk (바나나 우유)

This popular drink combines banana and milk for a creamy and sweet beverage that's loved by all ages. It’s both nostalgic and incredibly easy to prepare.

Ingredients: 1 ripe banana, 1 cup cold milk, and sugar to taste.

Instructions:

In a blender, combine the ripe banana, cold milk, and sugar.
Blend until smooth and