한식 읽기 좋은 날
Three K-Traditional Spirits that Pair Perfectly with K-Street Food
Sool-Topia
The late evening scene of clinking glasses at pojangmacha (street stalls) in alleyways is incredibly heartwarming. Street food enjoyed at these pojangmacha (aka pocha) often tastes even better. The blend of food and drinks found at these stalls has become a cherished aspect of Korean culinary culture, evolving into a unique and beloved tradition.
Just like the well-known pairing of ‘pajeon (green onion pancake) with makgeolli (unrefined rice wine)’, what are some other ideal Korean alcohol pairings with street food? Here are three K-traditional alcohol pairings that complement K-street food perfectly.
Makult
Introduction of the Traditional Liquor
Resembling the nostalgic drink Yakult both in appearance and taste, Makult is a traditional Korean rice wine created in collaboration between HY (formerly Korean yakult) and the traditional liquor subscription platform Sooldamhwa. This makgeolli is characterized by its sweet and tangy flavor, with a smooth, non-carbonated finish. Made from only domestic ingredients and filtered by hand, it is crafted with care. The versatility of Makult is another charm. You can freeze it into a slushy like bingsu or mix it with carbonated drinks like cola or cider for a unique twist. It has an alcohol content of 6% and is available in a bottle of 450ml.
Recommended Hansik Accompaniment
Makult pairs exceptionally well with spicy tteokbokki. The creamy, dairy-like smoothness balances the spiciness and greasiness of the tteokbokki perfectly. Accompanying a bottle of Makult with a bowl of chewy tteokbokki made with ample gochujang creates an adult version of the delicious street food memories of childhood.
Seoul Night 40%
Introduction of the Traditional Liquor
Produced by The Han Liquor, Seoul Night 40% is a distilled spirit made from domestically grown plums, distilled and aged to capture a deep, rich aroma. Notable for its pronounced plum fragrance and a hint of spiciness on the palate, it also incorporates juniper berries—commonly used in gin production—adding a touch of sophistication. This distinctive blend has earned it the nickname ‘Korean gin’ or ‘Seoul gin’. The finish is clean, but the high alcohol content leaves a strong, fiery sensation. For a purist experience, enjoy it straight; for those who prefer to savor the fruity notes, try it on the rocks. Seoul Night has an alcohol content of 40% and comes in a 375ml bottle.
Recommended Hansik Accompaniment
While jeon (pancake) is famous as a side dish for makgeolli, it also pairs well with clean, high-proof spirits that offset its greasiness. Try pairing Seoul Night with savory dishes like gamjajeon (potato pancake). The crisp, high-proof spirit complements the light and nutty flavors of the potato pancakes, balancing out the intense heat of the alcohol.
Yeonhui Hongcha
Introduction of the Traditional Liquor
The Yeonhui Series by Together Brewing is attracting great interest among younger drink enthusiasts. This lineup includes traditional makgeolli brewed with unique adjuncts like black tea, melon, yuzu, star anise, plum blossom, and mint. Yeonhui Hongcha is infused with black tea leaves, giving it the highest alcohol content (12%) among the series. It offers a rich, sweet flavor with a pleasant lingering aftertaste and a subtle acidity that adds depth to its profile. With its taste reminiscent of milk tea, it pairs exceptionally well with desserts. It has an alcohol content of 12% and comes in a 375ml bottle.
Recommended Hansik Accompaniment
For a perfect pairing, try it with bungeoppang (fish-shaped bread), a quintessential K-street food. The sweet taste of bungeoppang enhances the black tea flavor of Yeonhui Hongcha. On days when you crave something sweet, enjoy this combination for a delightful dessert experience.
* Caution: Excessive drinking can lead to strokes, memory impairment, or dementia. Alcohol consumption during pregnancy increases the risk of birth defects.
