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5 Korean Drinks: When the sky turns a dramatic shade of grey and the first drops of rain begin to fall, our natural instinct is to reach for a comforting classic—a steaming cup of masala chai or a rich, frothy coffee. But what if there was a whole new universe of flavors waiting to transform your rainy-day ritual? Enter the vibrant, soulful world of Korean beverages, an exciting collection of unique drinks that are perfectly crafted to embrace the cozy, romantic mood of the monsoon.
Ready to trade your usual cup for a delightful new adventure? Here are five delightful Korean drinks, from sweet and spicy to nutty and nutritious, that are perfect for sipping your way through the season.
1. Sikhye: The Sweet and Refreshing Rice Dream
Don’t let the idea of a rice drink fool you; Sikhye is a cherished Korean tradition for a reason. This non-alcoholic, subtly sweet beverage is incredibly refreshing and celebrated for its digestive properties, often served after a hearty meal. Made by malting barley and fermenting cooked rice, Sikhye has a clean, mellow sweetness and a light, comforting texture. The soft, floating rice grains add a unique character to every sip. It’s the perfect gentle treat to enjoy while watching the rain, offering a soothing experience that feels both nourishing and light.
2. Sujeonggwa: The Spicy, Soul-Warming Hug in a Glass
If the monsoon makes you crave something with a bit of a kick, Sujeonggwa is your answer. This classic Korean fruit punch is the liquid embodiment of warmth and spice. It’s crafted by simmering ginger, cinnamon sticks, and black peppercorns, then often finished with sweet, rehydrated dried persimmons. Served chilled, it delivers a surprisingly invigorating burst of flavor—a delightful paradox of cool temperature and warm spices. Each sip is a complex journey of sweet and spicy notes that can warm you from the inside out, making it the ideal companion for a cool, breezy evening.
3. Iced Yuja-cha: A Drop of Sunshine on a Cloudy Day
As seen in beloved K-dramas like “Yumi’s Cells,” Yuja-cha is a Korean staple made from the aromatic yuzu fruit, a citrus that tastes like a vibrant mix of mandarin orange, lemon, and grapefruit. While it’s commonly served as a hot tea to soothe sore throats, the iced version is an absolute game-changer for a gloomy monsoon day. Made by simply stirring a spoonful of yuzu marmalade into cold water, this drink is a burst of citrusy sunshine. Its sweet and tangy profile is an instant mood-lifter, cutting through the humidity and bringing a bright, cheerful zest to your afternoon.
4. Misugaru Latte: The Nutritious and Nutty Powerhouse
For those moments when you need something more substantial and incredibly satisfying, the Misugaru Latte is a must-try. Misugaru is a traditional Korean powder made from a blend of roasted multi-grains, beans, and nuts. When mixed with milk (or a plant-based alternative) and a touch of sweetener like honey, it transforms into a thick, creamy, and deeply nutritious drink. With its delicious nutty and roasted flavor, it can be served hot for a cozy feel or cold for a refreshing meal-on-the-go. It’s the perfect healthy indulgence to keep you feeling full, energized, and comforted.
5. Omija-cha: The Mysterious Five-Flavor Tea
Prepare your taste buds for an unforgettable experience. Omija-cha is a truly unique Korean tea made from dried Schisandra berries, famously known as the “five-flavor berry.” And it lives up to its name—in every sip, you can detect a symphony of sweetness, sourness, saltiness, bitterness, and a hint of spice (pungency). Typically prepared by steeping the dried berries to create a stunning, ruby-red liquid, this tea is then chilled and often sweetened with honey to balance its complex profile. It’s a sophisticated and intriguing beverage that is as visually beautiful as it is delicious, offering a multi-layered taste experience that will make any rainy day feel special.
