Description
Hwachae is a traditional Korean fruit punch made with a variety of fresh, seasonal fruits, typically served during the summer. This refreshing beverage is light, colorful, and hydrating, making it the perfect drink for hot days, family gatherings, or special occasions. While watermelon is often used as the base fruit, you can customize the recipe with your favorite fruits, and even add a fizzy twist with soda water or Sprite. The blend of fruits and sweet liquid creates a delightful balance of flavors that can be enjoyed as a dessert or a cooling refreshment.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups watermelon (cubed or balled)
- 1 cup strawberries (halved)
- 1 cup peaches (thinly sliced)
- ½ cup kiwi (peeled and sliced)
- ½ cup seedless grapes (halved)
- 2–3 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
- 2 cups cold water (for the base)
- 1 can of Sprite or soda water (optional, for fizz)
- Ice cubes (for serving)
- Mint leaves (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Fruits: Start by thoroughly washing all the fruits. Cube or ball the watermelon, halve the strawberries and grapes, and thinly slice the peaches and kiwi. Set them aside in separate bowls.
- Sweeten the Water: In a large mixing bowl, dissolve 2-3 tablespoons of sugar in 2 cups of cold water. Adjust the sweetness based on your preference. You can also replace the sugar with honey for a natural sweetness.
- Combine the Fruits: Add all the prepared fruits (watermelon, strawberries, peaches, kiwi, and grapes) to the sweetened water. Gently stir to distribute the fruits evenly throughout the liquid.
- Add Fizz (Optional): If you prefer a bubbly punch, pour in a can of Sprite or soda water just before serving. This will add a refreshing fizz to your Hwachae.
- Serve: Add ice cubes to the bowl to keep the punch cool, or serve the punch in individual glasses with ice. Garnish each serving with fresh mint leaves for an extra burst of flavor.
- Chill and Enjoy: For the best flavor, let the Hwachae sit in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to allow the fruits to infuse the liquid. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes
To make a creamier version, swap out the water for milk or almond milk. This variation, called “Baesuk-hwachae,” is popular with pears.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Beverages, Dessert
- Cuisine: Korean
Nutrition
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Sugar: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g