As a food writer at Food And Meal, I’m always seeking out new flavor adventures from around the globe. During a recent trip to Korean, I discovered a wonderfully unique beverage – Korean sweet rice punch. One sip of the creamy, aromatic drink transported me back to the bustling Seoul street market where I first tried it.
The distinct nutty aroma and subtly sweet flavor of this rice-based punch intrigued me. I could detect hints of coconut milk, ginger, and other Korean spices rounding out each cooling sip. As someone passionate about food and drink, my curiosity was piqued to learn the story and tradition behind this lesser known Thai specialty.
After talking with some local vendors, I learned that sweet rice punch has long been a beloved warmer during Korean’s steamy wet season. While refreshing, it still offers the comforting creaminess of rice pudding. I was so charmed by this drink that I was determined to recreate it when I returned home.
Sweet Rice Punch Recipe
KOREAN SWEET RICE PUNCH
Equipment
Ingredients
- 12 ounces barley malt (also called malt powder)
- 1 gallon water
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 slices fresh peeled ginger
- Pine nuts, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a very large bowl, mix the malt with the water. Rub the malt with your hands until the liquid becomes cloudy. Strain the liquid through a sieve, and discard the solids.
- Let the liquid sit for about 2 hours so that the malt settles. You’ll be using the clearer liquid on the top.
- In an electric rice cooker, combine the rice with the clear malt liquid. Turn on the warm setting and let it sit until some rice begins to float, about 4 hours.
- Transfer the rice with the liquid to a stockpot and add the sugar and ginger. Bring to a boil over high heat and let cook for 15 minutes. Remove from the heat and let cool.
- Serve cool or cold with a few pine nuts in each cup.
Video
Notes
- Glutinous Sweet Rice: Ensure you use glutinous sweet rice, sometimes called sticky rice, for the authentic texture of Sweet Rice Punch. Rinse the rice thoroughly before soaking to remove excess starch.
- Proper Soaking: Soak the sweet rice for at least 4 hours or overnight. This step softens the rice, making it easier to blend into a smooth mixture.
- Slow Simmering: When cooking the rice mixture, maintain a low to medium-low heat to avoid burning or sticking. Stir consistently to achieve a velvety consistency.
Nutrition
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This website provides approximate nutrition information for convenience and as a courtesy only. Nutrition data is gathered primarily from the Spoonacular Database, whenever available, or otherwise other online calculators.
Alternative Method: Instant Pot Sweet Rice Punch
Start by rinsing sweet rice until it runs clear, preparing it for a poetic infusion of flavors in the Instant Pot. The rhythmic hum sets the stage for a symphony as you patiently await the 30-minute pressure cook.
As the lid opens, a touch of sweetness emerges, blending brown sugar and honey into the perfectly cooked rice. Infusing the concoction with cinnamon sticks, dried jujubes, and optional persimmons adds an aromatic charm during a 10-15 minute simmer. Serving the elixir in bowls or mugs, garnished with pine nuts for a delightful crunch, offers a choice between warm comfort or refreshing chill.
Cooking Tips
Most importantly, use short or medium grain sweet rice and rinse it thoroughly before cooking. This removes excess starch for a smooth, creamy texture. Gently simmering the rice allows it to soften fully while retaining a pleasant chewy bite. And adding just a splash of mirin enhances the natural sweetness beautifully.
I prefer allowing the cooked rice to cool completely before blending, as this prevents the drink from becoming gluey. As I watch the pale grains transform into a thick, snowy liquid, childhood memories of sharing this sweet nectar with family flood back. Each cozy sip fills me with nostalgic joy.
Serving Suggestions
Whether you’re savoring the richness of Curry Yakisoba or the bold flavors of Shio Tantanmen, the Sweet Rice Punch complements each bite with its subtly sweet notes. Pair it with the freshness of Kohlrabi Salad or the heartiness of Masbate Bulalo for a balanced culinary experience. Whether you’re enjoying a comforting bowl of Chicken Briyani or the zesty kick of Spicy Tuna Maki, let the Sweet Rice Punch elevate your dining experience to a new level of delight. Explore the culinary symphony with this versatile beverage, bringing warmth and sweetness to your table.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) of Sweet Rice Punch
- What is the difference between amazake and sikhye? While both are rice-based beverages, amazake is a Japanese sweet fermented rice drink, often consumed as a dessert. Sikhye, on the other hand, is a Korean sweet rice drink flavored with malted barley powder and often garnished with pine nuts and rice grains.
- Is Korean rice drink good for you? Yes, Korean rice drinks like sikhye can be a healthy choice. They are rich in nutrients, provide energy, and can aid digestion. However, it’s essential to consume them in moderation as they may contain added sugars.
- What is sikhye in English? Sikhye, when translated to English, is commonly referred to as “sweet rice drink” or “sweet rice punch.”
- What is Woongjin morning rice? Woongjin Morning Rice is a brand or type of sweet rice commonly used in Korean cuisine. It’s known for its sticky texture, which contributes to the creamy consistency of dishes like Sweet Rice Punch.
- Can I use regular rice instead of sweet rice for this recipe?Sweet rice is crucial for the creamy texture of this punch. Using regular rice won’t yield the same results.
- How do I store leftovers, and for how long are they good? Store Sweet Rice Punch in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently, adding water to adjust the consistency as needed.
- Can I make this punch ahead of time for a special occasion? Yes, you can prepare Sweet Rice Punch ahead of time and reheat it before serving. It’s a great time-saver for gatherings.
- Are there any vegan-friendly alternatives to honey for this recipe? Yes, you can substitute honey with agave syrup or maple syrup to make the recipe vegan-friendly.
- Can I freeze Sweet Rice Punch for long-term storage? We don’t recommend freezing this punch as it can alter the texture upon thawing.
Conclusion
I hope you’ll try making this sweet rice punch recipe for yourself. The nutty aroma of the brown rice and rich sweetness of the red beans make for such a comforting, delicious drink. It’s the perfect way to warm up on a chilly day or wrap up a summer cookout with friends.
Be sure to check FoodAndMeal.com for even more creative drink ideas and authentic Japanese recipes. We have an entire section dedicated to matcha green tea recipes ranging from creamy ice creams to light, fluffy cakes. I find that matcha pairs so nicely with rice and beans to create well-balanced flavors and textures.
Let us know how your homemade rice punch turns out! Share a photo on Instagram and tag @foodandmeal so we can see your delicious creation. I’d be thrilled to hear your tweaks or any family traditions you add to this classic beverage. No matter how you choose to enjoy it, I hope this drink brings warmth and sweetness to your day.
Hi! I'm Nazia of ‘Nazia Cooks’, a self-taught baker and cook residing in Chennai. Rooted in the rich South Indian culinary landscape, my palate has expanded to embrace global flavors. I revel in crafting fusion dishes, melding traditions to birth unique tastes.