Homemade Cheonggyul (Green Mandarin) Syrup
Homemade Cheonggyul (Green Mandarin) Syrup
Making Refreshing Cheonggyul Syrup at Home
Experience the vibrant taste and health benefits of homemade Cheonggyul syrup! While delicious as a jam, it’s even better as a refreshing drink that’s said to boost immunity and prevent colds. It’s also known for its skin-beautifying properties, so let’s dive into making this delightful Cheonggyul syrup! *^^*
Ingredients- 3kg Green Mandarins (Cheonggyul)
- 3kg Sugar
- 1 cup (200ml) Soju (Korean distilled spirit)
- 2 Tbsp Baking Soda
- 3 Tbsp Vinegar
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Cheonggyul, or green mandarins, are a rare seasonal fruit available only for a single month between August and September. Missing this window means waiting a whole year, which is why I decided to make this syrup to capture its unique sweet and sour flavor. First, carefully remove the stems from the green mandarins. Then, soak them in a mixture of water with vinegar and baking soda for at least 20 minutes. Some people prefer to wash them with salt, but I always opt for this method to avoid damaging the delicate fruit.
Step 2
While the green mandarins are soaking to remove any residue, it’s time to sterilize your glass jars. Invert the clean jars in boiling water, allowing the hot steam to naturally sanitize them. After sterilization, ensure the jars are completely dry.
Step 3
Once thoroughly washed, let the green mandarins air dry completely in a shaded area. For any remaining moisture, use paper towels to carefully wipe them dry. Any residual water can lead to mold, making the syrup un-edible.
Step 4
Slicing the green mandarins as thinly as possible will not only make them look more appealing but also help the flavors meld beautifully with the sugar, resulting in a better-tasting syrup.
Step 5
In the completely dry sterilized jars, layer the thinly sliced green mandarins and sugar alternately. Creating beautiful layers will make your syrup visually delightful.
Step 6
Next, pour in 1 cup (200ml) of soju. Soju acts as a natural preservative, helping to keep the syrup fresh for a longer period. The alcohol scent will dissipate naturally over time, so don’t worry about it.
Step 7
Let the jar sit at room temperature for a few days, stirring occasionally to help the sugar dissolve. Once the sugar is well dissolved, refrigerate the syrup. The flavor will deepen and become even richer as it matures.
Step 8
Enjoy your homemade Cheonggyul syrup by mixing it with cold water or sparkling water to make a refreshing Cheonggyul ade. Don’t forget to scoop up the delicious liquid created by the mingling of green mandarins and sugar – it’s incredibly tasty! It’s the perfect thirst quencher on a hot summer day!
