How to Make Somaek

I’ve seen somaek made by the actors in so many Korean dramas, but never knew exactly what it was until a recent trip to Seoul. A colleague of mine explained that somaek is the combination of soju (a type of strong, Korean liquor similar to vodka) and maekju (the Korean word for beer). Over a dinner of Korean BBQ, he showed us how he makes it.

While the “ideal” combination is up to the maker, a suggested ratio of 30% soju and 70% beer is widely accepted. Another way of measuring how much soju to put in the beer is by stacking two shot glasses and using the “line” that forms as the maximum amount of soju for each beer glass (as demonstrated by my colleague). In the end, somaek must have the fresh taste of beer and the alcoholic strength of soju.

Once the soju has been poured into the beer, a spoon or chopsticks are placed into the drink. Using the utensil to make one swift swirl (or as my colleague showed us, using the spoon to hit the chopsticks to shake it up), everything is mixed so that bubbles form and rise to the top. Bubbles mean that the mix was done properly.

FYI

Much like vodka, flavored soju is also available. I tried this grapefruit-flavored soju which was tasty as is, even though it has less alcohol. The grapefruit flavor is slightly sweet but not so tart.

And that is how you make somaek. After having it a few times, I find it goes well with any type of pub food or BBQ or, well, anything fried (ooh…fried chicken and waffles come to mind).

Hope you try it out and enjoy! Gunbeh!

~T~