Saenggang Soju Cocktail Recipe
Saenggang Soju Nutrition Facts
Calories:180
Fat:0g
Protein:0g
Carbohydrates:10g
Alcohol:12%
Created by
Nic Polotnianko
I fell in love with the art of mixology 6 years ago. Since then, I've honed my skills, crafting a myriad of cocktail recipes, and sharing my passion with other enthusiasts.
Last Updated: August 23, 2024
Contents
History
Saenggang Soju cocktail, also known as Ginger Soju cocktail, is a popular Korean drink that combines the warmth of ginger with the smoothness of soju. This cocktail is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of spice in their drinks and is often consumed during the cold winter months to warm up the body. The Saenggang Soju cocktail is a favorite among Korean locals and tourists alike, and can be found in many bars and restaurants throughout the country.
How Saenggang Soju Tastes?
The Saenggang Soju cocktail has a warm, spicy, and slightly sweet taste. The ginger adds a zesty kick, while the soju provides a smooth and clean finish.
Interesting facts about Saenggang Soju
- The Saenggang Soju cocktail is believed to have originated in Korea, where ginger has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties and warming effects.
- Soju is a clear, colorless distilled beverage that is traditionally made from rice, wheat, or barley.
- Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making this cocktail not only delicious but also potentially beneficial for your health.
Ingredients
- Soju: 2 oz(60ml)
- Ginger syrup: 1 oz(30ml)
- Lemon juice: 0.5 oz(15ml)
- Club soda: 2 oz(60ml)
- Ginger slice: 1
- Lemon wheel: 1
A few good options for Saenggang Soju are:
- Brockmans
- Silent Pool Gin
- Hendrick's Gin
Soju
Soju forms the backbone of this cocktail, delivering a smooth, neutral spirit to carry the other flavors. At 2 oz, it's just enough to provide a kick without overpowering the drink. Too much soju can make the cocktail too strong, while too little would make it more of a flavored soda.
Mary Mitkina
Ginger Syrup
The ginger syrup is the zesty soul of the cocktail, adding both sweetness and a spicy kick. 1 oz ensures the flavor is present but not overwhelming. Too little, and the drink will be flat; too much, and it overshadows the soju.
Emma Rose
Lemon Juice
At 0.5 oz, the lemon juice adds a fresh twist, balancing out the sweetness of the ginger syrup. It's like the acid in a good vinaigrette: essential for balance. Without it, the cocktail loses its bright edge. A lime juice could be a substitution but would give the drink a different kind of tang.
Alex Green
Club Soda
Club soda offers a refreshing fizz, turning the cocktail from flat to fab. 2 oz is enough to give a bubbly personality without diluting the flavors. Without it, it's just not a spritz. If you’re out, tonic water could be a sub, but it'll add its own slight bitterness to the mix.
Mary Mitkina
Ginger Slice & Lemon Wheel
Ginger slice and lemon wheel are the garnish that also add a touch of flavor and sophistication. They're like the bow on a present; it's not the same without them. Plus, they give a hint of what to expect before you even take a sip.
Emma Rose
Recipe. How to make Saenggang Soju Drink
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Add the soju, ginger syrup, and lemon juice to the shaker.
- Shake well until chilled and combined.
- Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
- Top with club soda and gently stir.
- Garnish with a ginger slice and lemon wheel.
Pro Tips
- For a spicier kick, muddle some fresh ginger in the shaker before adding the other ingredients.
- Use a high-quality soju for a smoother and more refined taste.
Perfect Pairings
Appetizers
- Gyoza: The crispy texture of gyoza provides a nice contrast to the gingery spark of the cocktail.
- Kimbap: The cocktail's acidity cuts through the rice and complements the various fillings.
Main Courses
- Grilled Fish: The cocktail's ginger notes harmonizes with the delicate flavors of white fish.
- Bulgogi: The sweet and savory notes of bulgogi balance nicely against the drink's tartness.
Snacks
- Fried Chicken: The zesty and bold flavors of the cocktail can stand up to the richness of fried chicken.
- Salted Nuts: A classic bar snack that pairs well with the lightness of the cocktail.
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What you could change in Saenggang Soju
- If you don't have ginger syrup, you can make your own by simmering equal parts sugar and water with sliced ginger until the sugar dissolves. Strain and let cool before using.
- You can also use ginger ale instead of club soda and ginger syrup for a sweeter and more carbonated version of the cocktail.
Explore all drinks starting with S here
And of course - twists🍹
Honey Soju Spritz
- Substitute ginger syrup for honey syrup.
- Use sparkling honey wine instead of club soda. This twist will embrace a sweeter profile while maintaining the zing from the ginger garnish, giving the drink a more round and floral character.
Spicy Mango Soju
- Add 0.5 oz of fresh mango puree.
- Use a chili-infused ginger syrup. This variation offers a tropical punch with a fiery twist, perfect for those who like a cocktail with a bit of heat paired with fruity sweetness.
Green Tea Soju Fizz
- Brew and cool 2 oz of green tea, use it instead of club soda.
- Include a splash of honey. This twist incorporates earthy green tea flavors for a more relaxing vibe, replacing the soda fizz with soothing tea notes for a smoother finish.
In case you forgot basics how to make Saenggang Soju
Add your ingredients to the shaker first, then ice. Fill it up to ¾ of its capacity to ensure enough space for shaking. Hold the shaker with both hands (one on the top and one on the bottom) and shake vigorously. The shake should come from your shoulders, not your wrists.
Learn everything on how to shakePlace your chosen strainer on top of the shaker or mixing glass, ensuring a secure fit. Pour the cocktail into a glass through the strainer, which will catch solid ingredients and ice. If double straining, hold the fine mesh strainer between the shaker and the glass.
Learn everything on how to strainInsert the spoon into the glass until it touches the bottom. Keep the back of the spoon against the inside wall of the glass, and stir in a smooth, circular motion. The goal is to swirl the ice and ingredients together without churning or splashing.
Learn everything on how to stirGarnishing a bar drink depends on the type of garnish and the cocktail. Generally, it involves preparing the garnish (like cutting a citrus wheel or picking a sprig of mint), and then adding it to the drink in a visually appealing way (like perching it on the rim or floating it on top).
Learn everything on garnishingFind the cocktail you'd love!
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Frequently Asked Questions on Saenggang Soju
What is the alcohol content in Soju?
The alcohol content in Soju typically varies from 16.8% to 53%.
Is there a non-alcoholic version for the Saenggang Soju cocktail?
There is no official non-alcoholic version of the Saenggang Soju cocktail, but you can experiment by replacing Soju with a non-alcoholic ginger beer, or a similar non-alcoholic ingredient.
Is the Saenggang Soju cocktail suitable for vegans?
Yes, the Saenggang Soju cocktail is suitable for vegans as it doesn't contain any animal products.
How to store Soju if a bottle is opened?
Once opened, Soju should be consumed as soon as possible as its flavor can change. If you need to store it, seal it properly and keep it in a cool and dark place.
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