Traditional Punch Helps Cool Off on Hot Days

Hwachae or traditional punch made with various fruits or edible flower petals is one of the popular drinks to help Koreans beat the summer heat.

The first step to preparing a bowl of hwachae is to dice seasonal fruit and then soak them in sweetened water or juice. Flower petals can be added as a garnish.

Ancient books on festive occasions at the royal court describe the punch as being made with omija (red Korean berries), diced pears and honey. Pears used to be the favorite, but watermelons, peaches and strawberries can be used instead.

After the Japanese colonial rule of Korea in the early 20th century, sugar replaced honey as the usual sweetener.

Until the 1970s, hwachae was the most popular tonic for muggy weather during the summer.