Soju

Korean soju comes in fruit flavors here, mostly Damso in lychee, peach, strawberry and blueberry, plus a yogurt soju from Soon Hari.

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Soju questions

How strong is soju?

It depends on the type. Flavored soju, like grapefruit or peach, is usually 12 to 13% alcohol. Classic green bottle soju runs about 16 to 20%. Traditional distilled soju from small producers can be 25 to 45%, closer to vodka. Most soju is much lighter than Western spirits, which is why it's usually drunk in small shots with food.

How do you serve soju?

Serve it very cold, in small shot glasses. In Korea, drinking soju comes with etiquette. You pour for others and let them pour for you, hold your glass with both hands when an elder pours, and turn your head away from elders when you drink. The first shot is often taken together.

What food goes with soju?

Soju is made to go with food, especially Korean barbecue, fried chicken, spicy stews like kimchi jjigae, and pancakes like pajeon. Its clean, slightly sweet taste cuts through salty, fatty and spicy dishes. It also works with sushi, dumplings and other savory snacks.

What can you mix with soju?

The most popular mix is somaek, a shot of soju dropped into a glass of beer. Soju with Yakult or another yogurt drink makes a sweet, creamy cocktail, and soju with sparkling water or lemon soda makes an easy highball. You can also use it in place of vodka in light cocktails with fruit juice.