The Best Korean Beverages for a Cool Summer Drink

As the summer heat rises, finding the perfect refreshing beverage can make all the difference. Korean drinks offer a delightful way to cool down while enjoying unique flavors. Here’s a roundup of some of the best Korean beverages to sip on during the warm days of summer.

1. Sikhye (식혜)

Sikhye is a traditional Korean sweet rice drink made from fermented malt and cooked rice. Its slightly sweet flavor and cooling properties make it an inviting choice on a hot day. Best served chilled, sikhye often contains the soft texture of rice grains, adding to the overall experience. You can find it at many Korean restaurants or make it at home using readily available ingredients.

2. Sujeonggwa (수정과)

This aromatic cinnamon punch is made from dried persimmons, cinnamon, and ginger-infused water. Sujeonggwa is not only refreshing but also packed with spices that can help revitalize your body during the heat. Served cold, it can also be garnished with pine nuts for added texture and taste.

3. Omija Cha (오미자차)

Omija Cha, or five-flavor tea, is crafted from the dried berries of the Schisandra chinensis plant. This unique beverage has a combination of sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and pungent flavors, making it a multi-dimensional drink that excites the palate. When served chilled, omija cha is incredibly refreshing and is often enjoyed during the summer months for its hydrating properties.

4. Bori Cha (보리차)

Bori Cha is a roasted barley tea, popular in Korean households. It has a nutty taste and a light, refreshing quality that is perfect for sipping sipping ice-cold. Not only is bori cha delicious, but it is also caffeine-free, making it suitable for all ages. This drink can also be enjoyed hot or cold, but during the summer, serving it chilled is a must.

5. Honey Citron Tea (유자차)

This sweet and tangy drink is made from yuzu fruit mixed with honey, creating a delightful balance of flavors. While it is often enjoyed hot during the winter months, honey citron tea can be served cold over ice in the summer for a refreshing twist. Simply mix the concentrated paste with cold water for an instant summer cooler.

6. Korean Yogurt Drink (요구르트 음료)

Known as "yangyoo" in Korean, this yogurt drink is tangy, creamy, and incredibly satisfying on a hot day. Often flavored with fruits like strawberries or peaches, it is both refreshing and nourishing. You can enjoy it straight from the bottle or blend it into a smoothie for an extra refreshing treat.

7. Iced Korean Coffee (아이스 커피)

For coffee lovers, iced Korean coffee is a must-try. Whether you choose traditional instant coffee mixed with milk and sugar or visit a café for a specialty coffee drink, the chilled version is perfect for quenching your thirst. The strong flavor of coffee combined with sweeteners and cream will give you a boost of energy, making it an ideal summertime pick-me-up.

Exploring Korean beverages can introduce you to a world of flavors that are both unique and cooling. Whether you prefer sweet, savory, or refreshing drinks, these Korean options are sure to keep you revitalized throughout the hot summer months. Try them out, and enjoy the taste of summer with a delightful Korean twist!