Table of Contents
- Korean Traditional Teas and Beverages
- Types of Korean Traditional Teas
- The Charm of Korean Traditional Beverages
- How to Enjoy Traditional Beverages
- Korean Traditional Beverages, A Warm Sip for the Soul
1. Korean Traditional Teas and Beverages
Teas and beverages in Korea are more than
just thirst-quenchers; they serve as vessels of culture and history. Made from
natural ingredients and crafted with care, Korean traditional drinks are
renowned for their health benefits and rich flavors. Let’s dive into the world
of traditional teas and beverages to savor Korea's unique taste and elegance.
2. Types of Korean Traditional Teas
2-1. Grain and Nut Teas
Teas from grains and nuts are characterized
by their nutty, mild flavors and health benefits.
l 보리차(Barley Tea): A roasted barley infusion known for its toasty aroma aids
digestion and quenches thirst.
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| Roasted barley, [Photo Credit] Wikimedia Commons, Badagnani |
l 옥수수차(Corn Tea): Made from dried and roasted corn, this tea balances sweetness and
nuttiness and is rich in vitamin E and fiber.
l 현미차(Brown Rice Tea): Crafted from roasted brown rice, it offers a warm, mellow flavor
with antioxidant properties.
l 율무차(Job’s Tears Tea): Made from finely ground Job’s Tears, this tea boasts a strong
nutty taste and is said to promote healthy skin and weight management.
2-2. Fruit and Vegetable Teas
Teas infused with fruits and vegetables
captivate with their natural sweetness and aromatic richness.
l 유자차(Yuzu Tea): Made by mixing yuzu marmalade with hot water, it’s packed with
vitamin C and excellent for preventing colds.
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| Yuzu Tea [Photo Credit] KTO, Kim Jiho |
l 생강차(Ginger Tea): A warming tea brewed from ginger aids digestion and alleviates
cold symptoms.
l 대추차(Jujube Tea): Jujubes' sweet flavor and unique aroma combine to create a tea
that is great for relieving fatigue and warming the body.
l 오미자차(Schisandra Tea): This tea is known for its five distinct flavors (sweet, sour,
salty, bitter, and spicy), which boost stamina and immunity.
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| Schisandra Tea [Photo Credit] KTO, Kim Jiho |
l 국화차(Chrysanthemum Tea): Brewed from dried chrysanthemum flowers, it offers a subtle floral
fragrance and helps relieve stress and improve sleep.
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| Chrysanthemum Tea [Photo Credit] PxHere |
l 매실차(Plum Tea): Diluted plum concentrate creates a refreshing drink ideal for
relieving fatigue and aiding digestion.
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| Plum Tea [Photo Credit] KTO, Kim Jiho |
2-3. Herbal and Medicinal Teas
Herbal teas are often referred to as
medicinal teas for their health-enhancing properties.
l 쌍화차(Ssanghwa Tea): A blend of various medicinal herbs, it revitalizes energy and
warms the body.
l 인삼차(Ginseng Tea): A signature Korean health drink, it’s excellent for boosting
energy and enhancing immunity.
l 둥굴레차(Solomon’s Seal Tea): Brewed from the roots of Solomon’s Seal, it offers a delicate
sweetness and supports blood pressure regulation and digestion.
l 구기자차(Goji Berry Tea): Made from goji berries, this tea is beneficial for eye health and
liver function.
2-4. Others
l 녹차(Green Tea): A quintessential Korean tea rich in catechins, known for its
antioxidant effects and weight loss benefits.
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| Boseong Green Tea Plantation [Photo Credit] Flickr, KimJuwon |
3. The Charm of Korean Traditional Beverages
l 식혜(Sikhye)
A sweet traditional drink made from malt and rice, sikhye is often enjoyed
during holidays and celebrations. Its unique appearance, with rice grains
floating on the surface, adds to its appeal.
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| Sikhye [Photo Credit] KTO, Kim Jiho |
l 수정과(Sujeonggwa)
This drink is made by boiling cinnamon and ginger, offering a warm aroma and a
spicy-sweet flavor. Floating pine nuts enhance the taste, giving it a touch of
sophistication.
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| Sujeonggwa [Photo Credit] KTO, Kim Jiho |
l 숭늉(Sungnyung)
A drink made by boiling scorched rice in water, sungnyung has a toasty flavor
and is known for soothing the stomach.
l 미숫가루(Misugaru)
A powdered beverage made from ground grains, misugaru becomes a hearty snack
when mixed with milk or water. Its healthy sweetness and nutty flavor make it a
favorite for many.
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4. How to Enjoy Traditional Beverages
l Making Them at Home
With the right ingredients, drinks like yuzu tea or jujube tea are easy to
prepare at home. Visit a Korean grocery store to find the necessary items and
try making these beverages yourself.
l Experiencing Them in Korean Cafes
Many modern cafes in Korea have reimagined traditional beverages in unique
ways. During your trip to Korea, visit these cafes to explore a variety of
traditional teas and drinks in a contemporary setting.
5. Korean Traditional Beverages, A Warm Sip for the Soul
Korean traditional beverages are more than
just delicious drinks—they embody health, culture, and care. Whether you’re
studying Korean or simply looking for a moment of relaxation, enjoy the warmth
of these beverages for a truly special experience.
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