Sparkling Cheonggyul-ju: A Special Homemade Liqueur from a Year’s Wait
How to Make Aromatic Cheonggyul-ju: An Easy Recipe for Beginners
Make your own homemade Cheonggyul-ju, packed with the fresh flavor of green tangerines harvested only once a year! The crisp tartness and subtle sweetness will make any special occasion even brighter. Try it now!
Ingredients for Cheonggyul-ju
- 2kg fresh green tangerines (choose firm, vibrant ones)
- 200g sugar (or unrefined sugar; adjust sweetness to taste)
- 1.8L soju for infusions or distilled soju (25-30% ABV recommended)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, prepare the green tangerines. The freshness of the fruit is key to the flavor, so select ones with smooth, bright green skin.
Step 2
It’s crucial to sterilize the glass jar you’ll use for making the Cheonggyul-ju. Invert the jar with the opening facing down and sterilize it in boiling water for about 5 minutes. To prevent the glass from cracking due to sudden temperature changes, it’s best to heat it gradually starting from cold water.
Step 3
To remove any pesticides or impurities from the tangerine peels, prepare a cleaning solution. Fill a large bowl with plenty of water, add about 2-3 tablespoons of baking soda and 1/2 cup of vinegar, and mix well.
Step 4
Place the green tangerines in the cleaning solution and let them soak for about 15-20 minutes. Afterward, wash each tangerine thoroughly under running water, gently rubbing. Since the peel’s aroma is important, rub gently to avoid damaging the skin.
Step 5
It’s very important to completely dry the washed green tangerines. Use paper towels or a clean cloth to meticulously dry them, then let them air dry completely in a well-ventilated area. Residual moisture can lead to the growth of unwanted bacteria during fermentation.
Step 6
Once completely dry, slice the green tangerines into bite-sized pieces. You don’t need to remove the seeds. Using the peel will impart a deeper, richer aroma. Avoid slicing them too thinly, as this can result in a bitter taste; aim for a moderate thickness.
Step 7
Layer the sliced green tangerines and sugar into the sterilized jar. The basic ratio of green tangerines to sugar is 1:1, but you can adjust the amount of sugar to your preference. As the sugar dissolves, it will enhance the lovely aroma of the green tangerines.
Step 8
After filling the jar, pour in the prepared soju for infusion. Ensure there’s enough soju to completely submerge the green tangerines and sugar. Gently shake the jar before pouring to help the ingredients distribute evenly.
Step 9
Seal the jar tightly with its lid and store it in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. Let it age for at least 3 months. After this period, you’ll enjoy a delicious Cheonggyul-ju where the fragrant notes of the green tangerines blend harmoniously with the smooth spirit. The longer it ages, the deeper the flavor will become.
