Discover Sikhye & Sujeonggwa: Korea’s Beloved Traditional Drinks

 

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Korean cuisine isn’t just about savory dishes and spicy flavors—it’s also home to some of the most unique and refreshing traditional beverages. Two of the most iconic are Sikhye and Sujeonggwa, often enjoyed during holidays, family gatherings, or simply as a sweet treat to cool down or warm up. Let’s dive into what makes these drinks so special.

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🍚 What Is Sikhye?

Sikhye (식혜) is a sweet rice drink made by fermenting cooked rice with malt water. It’s mildly sweet, soothing, and often served cold with soft rice grains floating in the glass.
Source: Korean Health Portal – Sikhye Overview

• Main Ingredients: Cooked rice, malt (yeotgireum)
• Preparation: Malt water is mixed with rice and fermented, then boiled and chilled
• Flavor Profile: Nutty, mellow sweetness with a comforting grain aroma
• Cultural Note: Commonly served during Korean holidays like Lunar New Year and Chuseok

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🍵 What Is Sujeonggwa?

Sujeonggwa (수정과) is a spiced punch made with ginger, cinnamon, and sweeteners like sugar or honey. It’s aromatic, slightly spicy, and traditionally garnished with dried persimmons and pine nuts.
Source: Food Safety Korea – Sujeonggwa Info

• Main Ingredients: Ginger, cinnamon, sugar or honey
• Preparation: Simmer ginger and cinnamon, sweeten, chill, and garnish
• Flavor Profile: Warm, spicy, and fragrant with a hint of sweetness
• Cultural Note: Often served after meals or during winter celebrations

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⚖️ Sikhye vs Sujeonggwa: A Flavorful Comparison

Source: Rural Development Administration – Beverage Guide

Category	Sikhye	Sujeonggwa
Main Ingredients	Cooked rice, malt	Ginger, cinnamon, sugar/honey
Flavor	Mild, nutty sweetness	Spicy, aromatic sweetness
Serving Style	Cold, with floating rice grains	Cold or warm, with dried persimmons and pine nuts
Occasions	Holidays, summer refreshment	Festive meals, winter gatherings

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🌟 Why You Should Try Them

Both Sikhye and Sujeonggwa offer a taste of Korean tradition in every sip. Whether you’re craving something sweet and soothing or bold and spicy, these drinks are a delightful way to explore Korea’s culinary culture. They’re easy to make at home, and many Korean restaurants and markets offer bottled versions for convenience.

If you’re new to Korean food, these beverages are a perfect starting point—they’re non-alcoholic, naturally flavorful, and steeped in centuries of tradition.

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📌 This post is part of our “Taste Korea” series, introducing traditional Korean foods and drinks to global audiences.