Description
Korean Fruit Punch Hwachae is a traditional Korean refreshing beverage that combines a vibrant mix of fresh seasonal fruits with a subtly sweet syrup and sparkling water. This colorful, thirst-quenching punch is perfect for hot days, gatherings, or anytime you want a light, naturally sweet, and visually stunning treat, easily customizable with your favorite fruits and dietary preferences.
Ingredients
Fresh Fruits
- Korean pears – 1 medium, peeled and sliced
- Watermelon – 1 cup, cubed
- Strawberries – 1 cup, hulled and halved
- Oranges – 1 medium, peeled and sliced
Sweet Syrup
- Honey or sugar – 2 to 3 tablespoons (adjust to taste)
- Cold water – 3 cups
- Magnolia berry (Omija) concentrate – 2 tablespoons (optional but recommended)
Additional Ingredients
- Sparkling water or soda – 1 to 2 cups (added before serving)
- Ice cubes – as needed to chill
- Fresh mint leaves – a few sprigs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Your Fruits: Wash all fruits thoroughly. Peel and slice Korean pear, watermelon, and oranges into bite-sized pieces or thin rounds. Hull strawberries and cut them in halves. Keep the pieces fairly uniform for a balanced appearance and easy eating.
- Make the Sweet Base: In a large bowl, dissolve the honey or sugar into cold water to form a smooth syrup. If using magnolia berry concentrate, stir it into the syrup now for a traditional floral and tangy note.
- Combine Everything: Gently add the prepared fruits into the syrup base, stirring lightly to coat without crushing. Just before serving, add the sparkling water or soda to maintain the fizz and refreshing quality.
- Chill and Serve: Add plenty of ice cubes to keep the punch cold. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a refreshing aroma and visual appeal. Serve in clear bowls or tall glasses to showcase the colorful fruit medley.
Notes
- Use fresh, ripe fruits for the best flavor and texture.
- Chill the fruits, syrup, and soda ahead for a cooler and more refreshing punch.
- Add sparkling water last to preserve carbonation and stir gently.
- Slice fruits evenly for a beautiful presentation and smooth texture.
- Korean pear adds authentic crispness and subtle sweetness; substitute if unavailable.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; fruits may lose crispness.
- Freezing is not recommended as fruits become mushy after thawing.
- Serve cold; reheating is not advisable.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Beverages
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Korean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 80 kcal
- Sugar: 16 g
- Sodium: 5 mg
- Fat: 0 g
- Saturated Fat: 0 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 21 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg