Soju: Seven Homemade Recipes You Can Try On Your Own
Image credit: @danielseokgoank on Instagram
No matter what country you’re from, no party will be complete without the presence of alcohol. But in Korea, there’s a specific liquor that seems to be always present, even if there’s no celebration. This certain alcohol is called 소주 or so-ju.
Soju is a clear and colourless drink that contains at least 20 to 24% alcoholic content. Taste-wise, it can be compared to vodka; only it is less harsh and does not have that burning sensation.
It is widely popular in Asian countries like Japan, China and of course, Korea. It is commonly paired with meals like sangyeopsal, but it can also be mixed with cocktails.
The history of this drink can be traced back to the 13th century of Goryeo. It all started during the Mongol invasions of Korea, where the Yuan Mongols introduced the Levantine distilling technique.
Traditionally, soju is made by distilling rice. However, when it got banned during the Korean war, people resorted to using other grains and starches like, wheat, sweet potatoes and even tapioca.
Now, this liquor is not limited to just one to two flavours anymore. A lot of variants are being sold, and you can even add different ingredients from other drinks, to fruits and ice cream!
Don't believe it? Here are some recipes you can try!
1. Soju Yakult
Soju Yakult is probably one of the most popular mixes out there. It is ideal for those who have a not-so-strong alcohol tolerance, but still want to enjoy a night out.
What’s good about this recipe is that it is also adjustable according to your taste. All you need is 400ml of soju, 2 bottles of Yakult and 50ml 7-Up or Sprite to add flavour. You can also opt to use soda water, if you don’t want it to be too sweet and fizzy.
Just simply mix all the ingredients in a pitcher with ice and viola! Your drink is ready!
2. Soju Melona
This mix is the ultimate summer drink that involves the use of Melona, a popular Korean ice cream popsicle.
There are only two steps to make this drink. First, is adding ice, a shot of soju and half a cup of Sprite in your glass. Then, use the Melona to stir and wait for it to slightly melt, until the mixture becomes milk-coloured. Once the popsicle becomes a liquid; your drink will become thicker and frothier!
The Soju-Melona combination has become so popular that there is actually now a Melona-flavored soju in the market.
Pro tip: You can mix and match different flavours of soju and Melona if you want to liven it up a little. ;)
3. Cucumber Soju Coolers
This cool recipe is a good combination to your spicy meals. Although it takes quite some time to prepare, the refreshing taste with a hint of sweetness will definitely make the work worth it.
Before mixing it with soju, you need to make two things: lime syrup and cucumber-mint puree. For the lime syrup, heat water, sugar and salt in a pan until the sugar dissolves. Once it cools down, add the lime juice.
For the puree, mix the cucumber and mint using a blender. Then, strain it using a sieve until all solid particles are removed.
And finally, mix the syrup, puree and soju on a pitcher, and add a splash of club soda.
4. Watermelon Soju
Another recipe that will get you through the hot weather is this Watermelon Soju bomb. Here’s how you make it:
Cut the top part of the watermelon and scoop the insides. Set aside the bowl while you blend the watermelon flesh for 1 minute. Don’t forget to use a strainer to discard the pulp!
Next, take 4 cups of blended watermelon juice and add 4 cups of soju. Mix well, before placing it on the watermelon bowl. Add ice, and enjoy!
Pro-tip: This recipe is best served with pajeon :)
5. Soju Bomb
Yes, this drink is literally called “Soju Bomb” but don’t get scared! This drink will not explode. In fact, it is a very classic recipe. Also called so-maek (a combination of the word soju and maegju, the Korean word for beer), this drink was popularised by Korean salarymen.
The typical ratio is 70-30, which means 30% of soju and 70% of beer. There is also another variation of this recipe called “somaekcol”, which includes the use of Coca-cola, for those who want a sweet aftertaste.
6. Soju Coffee
If we’re talking about unique soju recipes, this one will surely make the list. While most of us feel sleepy after drinking alcohol, consuming this mixture will wake up your senses instead!
The ratio for this drink is 80% coffee and 20% soju. You can choose whichever coffee you’d like – black or creamy, depending on your taste. This recipe might be weird to some, but apparently not to Koreans, as there is also a coffee-flavoured soju now available on the market.
7. Pineapple Soju
There are two ways you can make this recipe. First is following the same method as the Watermelon Soju, where you’ll cut the top part of the fruit and blend the insides before mixing the finished product with soju, and pouring it in the pineapple bowl.
Meanwhile, the second version requires minimal steps. You just have to slice the pineapple to bite-sizes, put it in a glass and mix with soju and lemon soda. If you don’t have the fruit at home, you can also replace it with pineapple juice!
Well, there you have it! 7 soju recipes you can on your next party. Do you have a favourite among these mixtures? Let us know below.
