When thinking about what to enjoy alongside Korean Watermelon Punch, or Subak Hwachae, the options are delightful. Light snacks complement the refreshing nature of this punch well.
Consider serving with savory Korean pancakes (jeon), lightly fried and filled with scallions, or some spicy tteokbokki, which balances the sweetness.
Even a simple bowl of nuts can serve as a great pairing. Of course, if you’re feeling adventurous, a platter with fresh fruits and some cheese can create a colorful spread that invites guests to explore flavors together.
Each bite and sip becomes part of a shared experience, elevating your gathering to something memorable.
For the Main Drink:
- 1 ½ cups Sprite or Korean cider like Chilseong Cider or Cheonyeon Cider
- 1 cup chilled milk
- 1/4 watermelon, cubed, scooped, or melon balled (about 2 cups)
- 1 cup crushed ice
- 2 teaspoons honey
Punch Liquid:
- 1/2 cup watermelon, diced for blending
- 6-8 ripe strawberries
- 1/4 cup cold milk
- 2 tablespoons agave syrup
- 1/2 cup ice cubes
Creating Subak Hwachae is as enjoyable as drinking it. Here’s how I craft this delightful punch step-by-step.
Start by cutting your watermelon. I usually opt for a medium-sized watermelon. This way, I can enjoy the leftover slices later.
Once you have your cubes (or use a melon baller for a fancier presentation), set them aside in a large bowl.
Next up, grab a blender! This part is fun. Toss in the diced watermelon, strawberries, and cold milk. I often combine the strawberries and watermelon in a way that creates a vibrant pink hue. Add agave syrup for sweetness. Blend until smooth.
In a large pitcher, combine Sprite or Korean cider with chilled milk. It should fizz in a delightful way. To this mix, add the honey. Stir well until combined. I often find that honey takes a bit longer to fully dissolve, so patience is essential!
Pour the blended fruit mixture into the pitcher with the fizzy base. Give it a gentle stir, blending the flavors, but be careful not to agitate it too much—you want to keep that lovely fizz.
Now, fetch your crushed ice. Add a cup or so into the pitcher. This step helps cool everything down.
Once mixed, I enjoy coating the inside of serving glasses with a little extra watermelon juice to hint at the magic within.
Pour the punch over ice-filled glasses. Garnish with additional fruit slices, or even mint leaves if you’re feeling fancy. As you sip, take in that refreshing burst of flavors. I can almost feel a light breeze as I savor each drop.
Watermelon: A ripe watermelon is key. It should feel heavy and sound hollow when knocked on.
Milk: Regular, almond, or oat milk all work well. Choose based on your preference or dietary needs.
Strawberries: Fresh strawberries will enhance the drink’s aroma and flavor. Frozen ones work too in a pinch, but fresh is best for texture.
If you want to mix things up a bit, I've found some fun variations:
Subak Hwachae is more than just a drink; it's a celebration of summer, friendship, and flavors.
I encourage you to embrace making this refreshing watermelon punch. It's simple to prepare, bursting with nutrients, and above all, it brings joyful moments whether shared among friends or enjoyed solo on a sunny day.
So next time, grab some fresh watermelon, a couple of strawberries, and a fizzy drink—get ready to create a memory in each sip. Cheers to summer refreshment, and happy sipping!
Imagine a lazy summer afternoon. The sun casts a gentle glow while a slight breeze wafts through the air. You’re in the mood for something refreshing, something that quenches your thirst yet tantalizes your taste buds.
That's where Korean Watermelon Punch, or Subak Hwachae, shines. This beverage stands out not only for its vibrant colors, but for its ability to wrap you in a summer embrace. It's like finding a little piece of sunshine in a bowl.
In South Korea, Summer is synonymous with watermelon, and this punch embodies that spirit. It combines watermelon’s natural sweetness with a frothy creamy twist.
As a registered dietitian, I appreciate when food and wellness unite. This drink allows you to indulge while being mindful of ingredients, making it an excellent choice for anyone seeking a refreshing treat.
I’ve dabbled in making various summer punches, but I always find myself returning to Subak Hwachae. The ingredients are simple yet create a drink that feels special.
Start by cutting your watermelon. I usually opt for a medium-sized watermelon. This way, I can enjoy the leftover slices later.
Once you have your cubes (or use a melon baller for a fancier presentation), set them aside in a large bowl.
Now, fetch your crushed ice. Add a cup or so into the pitcher. This step helps cool everything down.
Once mixed, I enjoy coating the inside of serving glasses with a little extra watermelon juice to hint at the magic within.
Servings 4
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Iris Miller is a registered dietitian and the creator of Friendsgiving Food Ideas, a blog dedicated to festive, accessible recipes that bring people together. Based in Colorado, Iris combines her passion for nutrition and love of celebrations to create crowd-pleasing dishes for holidays and special occasions. Her goal is to make hosting easy, fun, and inclusive for all dietary needs.