Pear and ginger makgeolli
A gentle, lightly spiced Korean rice-wine cocktail made with pear juice and fresh ginger. Stirred in the glass for a simple two-minute finish.

AI-generated cooking illustrations. Follow the written quantities and instructions.
Ingredients
2 servings

Everyday kitchen measurements
For 2 servings. Use a small 180 ml paper cup, a level eating spoon (about 15 ml) and a small teaspoon (about 5 ml).
How to fill the cup and spoons
Use the same cup and spoons throughout. Their sizes vary, so these amounts are approximate. Spoon flour in loosely and level the top without pressing. Measure vegetables after chopping, without packing them down. The amounts in g/ml are the original reference quantities. For part of a pack, use the specified pack weight and divide the contents evenly.
King Arthur Baking-
Essential
Use plain makgeolli and keep it chilled; sweetness and fizz vary by brand.
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Substitute available
If Unsweetened pear juice — 1/2 paper cup (90 ml) is unavailable
If pear juice is unavailable, use unsweetened apple juice in the same amount; the flavor will change.
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Substitute available
If Fresh ginger — 1 small slice, about 1 teaspoon finely grated is unavailable
Use 1/4 small teaspoon ground ginger if fresh ginger is unavailable; use less because it tastes stronger.
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Optional
Omit if the juice and makgeolli are already sweet.
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Optional
Chill the glasses and juice instead if ice is unavailable.
Tap each ingredient as you prepare it. Check product labels for egg, soy, sesame, wheat, fish or shellfish where relevant.
Step-by-step cooking
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Step 1

Wash, peel and finely grate 1 teaspoon (5 ml) fresh ginger. Divide it between two clean glasses. If using ground ginger, use just a small pinch in each glass.
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Step 2

Pour 1/4 paper cup (45 ml) unsweetened pear juice into each glass and stir to distribute the ginger. Add 1/2 paper cup (90 ml) cold makgeolli to each; stir slowly without making it foam.
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Step 3

Taste. Add a little honey only if needed, then add ice if using. Serve immediately and refrigerate the remaining makgeolli according to its label.
Finished dish

Use a smooth plain makgeolli so the pear and ginger remain clear. Check the label for grain allergens and ABV. For adults of legal drinking age only. Alcohol strength varies by bottle; taste before adding extra syrup. Serve one glass at a time and do not drive after drinking. Keep perishable ingredients refrigerated.