Source: Ricka_kinamoto, AdobeStockSoju is often called Korean vodka, but that's not entirely accurate. It's an alcoholic beverage made from grain or sweet potato with an average alcohol content of about 20%. Today, we'll tell you what to drink soju with and what snacks to choose for it!
How to Drink Soju Properly
Soju can be freely enjoyed neat; it's poured into small glass shot glasses and sipped in small gulps. The shot glass should always be emptied. According to etiquette, you shouldn't pour soju for yourself, and when sitting with company at a table, you should turn away before drinking.
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15 Soju Cocktail Recipes That Will Surely Surprise You
What to Pair Soju With
Soju is a relatively light drink, most often consumed with everyday meals. Therefore, any hot or cold dishes are suitable, not just appetizers!
1. Meat
For example, beef in soy sauce with ginger and hot pepper. Most Korean dishes are sweet and spicy, so they pair well with neutral alcohol.
Source: AdobeStock2. Fish
Fish sticks are an excellent choice, easy to eat in a large group. Serve them with various sauces and additions like sliced vegetables and herbs.
3. Poultry
Chicken skewers and similar dishes are tasty, satisfying, and always appropriate. In Korea, they are often served with green onions for aroma.
Source: AdobeStock4. Rice Balls
Korean rice balls with various fillings resemble Japanese onigiri and are prepared similarly. A popular filling is fried bacon or ham with vegetables.
5. Seafood
A wide variety of seafood appetizers also pair well with soju. This makes for a rather refined dining option, and it's lighter compared to fried meat.
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What to Mix Soju With
If you want something refreshing, very low-alcohol, less or more sweet, then soju can be mixed with other drinks. It's rarely used in complex cocktails due to its low alcohol content and mild flavor, but there are more than enough simple options!
1. Sprite or 7UP
Proportions can be adjusted to your taste. Serve this mix with or without ice – whichever you prefer.
Source: AdobeStock2. Soda Water
If you want to dilute the alcohol content and make the taste less intense, but keep it clean, dilute soju with soda water or plain mineral water. An excellent drink for summer!
3. Juice
Classic citrus juices work very well here too. You can add a little mint and soda water, and then you'll get something like a Mojito.
Source: AdobeStock4. Tonic Water
Those who prefer a slight bitterness in cocktails will definitely enjoy soju with tonic water. Classic tonic or bitter lemon would be best.
5. Syrups
Sweet tooths dilute soju with sugar syrup or any other syrup to taste. You can also add a little soda water, sparkling water, or juice. In Korea, there are even special soju syrups – small, portioned ones. They are mixed with the original drink without any other additions.
6. Beer
A popular male cocktail called poktanju. For this, a shot glass of soju is quickly dropped into a glass of beer and drunk in one gulp. Alternatively, you can simply chase soju with beer.
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