Soju is a traditional Korean distilled liquor that has been around for centuries. It's traditionally enjoyed neat or diluted with water and consumed in small shots as part of a meal, but recently, there has been an exciting shift in Korea’s drinking culture. Soju cocktails are becoming increasingly popular in bars and restaurants all over the country, offering an updated twist on the classic drink.
Soju is typically served with food or in a variety of drinks and cocktails, making it an integral part of the traditional Korean drinking culture. But why not give this classic beverage a modern twist?
What is Soju?
Soju is a clear distilled spirit made from sweet potatoes, rice, wheat, or barley and typically contains about 20 percent alcohol by volume (ABV). It is one of the most popular alcoholic beverages in Korea, both for its taste and its affordability. The drink was traditionally enjoyed neat or diluted with water and consumed as part of a meal or gathering with friends or family in small doses as shots.
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The Modern Take on Soju
In recent years, soju has gained popularity among younger generations who have begun to mix it with other ingredients to create unique cocktails. These soju cocktails often feature fresh fruits such as pineapple and lychee, juices like orange juice or cranberry juice, and even beer to create unique flavor combinations. This new trend has caused soju sales to skyrocket over the past few years; many bars now offer an extensive selection of soju-based drinks alongside their regular menu items.
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The Benefits of Drinking Soju Cocktails
Soju cocktails offer numerous benefits beyond just their delicious taste. Since soju is lower in alcohol content than other liquors such as vodka or whiskey—at about 20% ABV—drinking responsibly is easier than ever before. Plus, since there are no sugar-laden additives like those found in many premixed cocktails available at stores today, you can be sure that you’re getting all natural ingredients without any extra calories. Furthermore, unlike many other alcoholic beverages which can be quite expensive due to high taxes or tariffs placed on them by governments around the world, soju remains relatively affordable even when mixed into cocktails!
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Soju-Cocktail Recipes you MUST Try!
Soju-Mint Mojito
This refreshing combination of soju and mint combines the best of both worlds - the smoothness of soju with the zest of mint. Start by combining 1 part soju and 2 parts club soda in a glass over ice. Then add 4-5 sprigs of fresh mint leaves, along with 1 tsp sugar, and muddle until the sugar has dissolved and the mint is fragrant. Finally, top off with lime juice, stir to combine, and garnish with fresh mint leaves for extra flavor!
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Shochu Sour
This cocktail takes its inspiration from whiskey sours without all the strong alcohol taste. Generously pour 1 part shochu (Korean vodka) into a shaker filled with ice and shake until chilled. Add 2 parts pineapple juice, 1/2 part lemon juice, and 1/4 part simple syrup to taste. Shake again until all ingredients are combined, then strain into two glasses filled with fresh ice cubes. Serve each glass topped off with club soda for added fizziness!
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Soju Sangria
If you’re looking for something sweet yet light and fruity, this is your go-to drink! Start by pouring 3 parts soju into an empty pitcher over ice cubes. Add orange slices (or any other fruit), then fill up the rest of the pitcher with red wine (or white wine if preferred). Add 3 tablespoons sugar to sweeten it up a bit and stir everything together gently until sugar has dissolved completely. Serve chilled in individual glasses topped off with club soda!
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So if you’re looking for something new and exciting to try out next time you hit up your local bar or restaurant—or if you’re just curious about trying out Korea’s traditional national drink—give soju cocktails a try! They offer all the flavor of more expensive drinks without any of the added sugar or guilt associated with indulging too much in hard liquor. Whether you mix your own creations at home using fresh fruit juices and beer or order up something fancy from your local barkeep—you won’t regret trying out these modern twists on traditional Korean favorites!
