Sujeonggwa (수정과), a traditional Korean spiced ginger tea, is a warming and comforting beverage perfect for chilly evenings or as a festive treat. This ruby-red elixir, with its delicate sweetness and fragrant spices, offers a unique culinary experience unlike any other. Its history stretches back centuries, evolving from a royal court drink to a beloved winter staple in Korean households. The rich, complex flavors derived from ginger, cinnamon, and jujube blend harmoniously, creating a taste both invigorating and soothing. The beautiful translucent color adds to its visual appeal, making it a delightful drink to both prepare and share.
Beyond its deliciousness, sujeonggwa boasts potential health benefits, attributed to the ginger's anti-inflammatory properties and the fruit's rich vitamins. Ready to experience the magic of this ancient Korean recipe? Let's delve into the detailed step-by-step instructions below to craft your own batch of this exquisite spiced ginger tea.
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Knife
- Toothbrush
- Strainer
Ingredients
- Ginger: 150g
- Cinnamon sticks: 100g
- Brown sugar: 200g
- White sugar: 100g
- Water: 1.5L
- Dried persimmons
- Walnuts
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Ingredients & Infuse
- Peel and slice 150g of ginger. This step can be time-consuming.
- Wash 100g of cinnamon sticks and scrub them thoroughly with a clean toothbrush.
- Add the sliced ginger to 1.5 liters of water and the cinnamon sticks to another 1.5 liters of water. Bring both to a boil on high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-high and simmer for 40 minutes.
Step 2. Combine & Sweeten
- Strain both the ginger and cinnamon water into a large pot.
- Add 200g of brown sugar and 100g of white sugar to the combined liquids.
- Let it boil for another 10 minutes to dissolve the sugar completely.
Step 3. Optional: Prepare Accompanying Snack
- Split open dried persimmons, remove the seeds, and press walnuts into both sides.
Read more: Oksusu Cha (Korean Corn Tea): A Simple & Flavorful Recipe
Tips
- Adjust the ratio of cinnamon and ginger to your liking. More ginger for spicier tea, more cinnamon for a stronger cinnamon flavor.
- You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar, or adding more water for a milder taste.
- This tea is traditionally enjoyed in the fall and winter months due to its warming properties and the seasonal availability of persimmons.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I make Sujeonggwa without cinnamon?
While cinnamon is traditional, you can omit it if you have an allergy or dislike the flavor. The tea will still be delicious, though slightly less complex.
2. How long can I store Sujeonggwa?
Store Sujeonggwa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. The flavor may intensify slightly over time.
3. What can I do if my Sujeonggwa is too sweet?
Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a splash of water to balance the sweetness. Taste and adjust as needed.
Enjoy the warming embrace and delightful flavors of homemade Sujeonggwa; this traditional Korean drink is a perfect way to treat yourself and your loved ones. From its simple ingredients to its complex taste, Sujeonggwa offers a satisfying and healthy experience. So, gather your ingredients and embark on this flavorful culinary journey!