Soi ju

Korean distilled alcoholic beverage

Template:Korean name

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Raw beef, often consumed with soju

Soju (Korean: 소주; Template:IPA-ko) is a clear, colorless distilled alcoholic beverage of Korean origin. It is traditionally made from rice, wheat, or barley, but modern producers often replace rice with other starches such as potatoes, sweet potatoes, or tapioca. Soju is the most popular alcoholic beverage in South Korea and is also widely consumed in other countries.

History

The history of soju dates back to the 13th century during the Goryeo Dynasty, when the technique of distillation was introduced to Korea from the Mongol Empire. The Mongols had learned the distillation process from the Persians, and they brought it to Korea during their invasions. The traditional method of making soju involved distilling fermented grain mash in a single pot still.

Production

Soju is produced by distilling a fermented grain mash. The traditional method involves using a single pot still, which results in a beverage with a higher alcohol content. However, most modern soju is produced using a continuous still, which allows for mass production and a lower alcohol content, typically around 16-25% alcohol by volume (ABV).

Ingredients

While traditional soju was made from rice, modern soju can be made from a variety of starches. Common ingredients include:

• Rice
• Wheat
• Barley
• Potatoes
• Sweet potatoes
• Tapioca

Distillation Process

The distillation process begins with the fermentation of the starches to produce a mash. This mash is then distilled to separate the alcohol from the other components. The resulting liquid is filtered and diluted to achieve the desired alcohol content.

Consumption

Soju is traditionally consumed neat, in small shot glasses. It is often served with Korean cuisine, particularly with grilled meat dishes such as samgyeopsal (grilled pork belly) and bulgogi (marinated beef). Soju is also used as a base for cocktails and mixed drinks.

Cultural Significance

In Korean culture, soju is more than just a beverage; it is a social lubricant and an integral part of many social gatherings. It is customary to pour drinks for others rather than oneself, and to receive drinks with both hands as a sign of respect.

Varieties

There are many varieties of soju, ranging from traditional distilled soju to modern diluted soju. Some popular brands include:

• Chamisul
• Jinro
• Chum-Churum

Related pages

• Korean cuisine
• Alcoholic beverage
• Distillation
• Korean culture