Description
Yuzu Cha (Citron Tea) is a traditional Korean-style syrup made from fresh yuzu citrus and rock sugar. It’s naturally preserved and transforms into a fragrant, sweet-tart drink when mixed with hot or cold water. Free of tea leaves, it’s a comforting, vitamin-rich beverage perfect for any season.
Ingredients
- 450 g fresh yuzu (about 6–7 medium yuzu)
- 450 g white rock sugar
- Hot water (optional, for sterilizing jars)
Instructions
- Wash yuzu thoroughly, dry completely, and score the bottom with an “X”.
- Peel the rind in large pieces, separate the fruit into segments, and remove the white membrane and seeds.
- Thinly slice the rind into long strips. Combine rind, fruit segments, and juice in a bowl. Rub gently to soften.
- Sterilize jars by rinsing with hot water and letting them dry fully.
- Layer sugar and yuzu mixture in jars, starting and ending with sugar. Press gently to remove air pockets.
- Seal jars and store in a cool, dark place for 7 days, shaking daily to help dissolve sugar.
- After 7 days, refrigerate. Stir 1 tbsp syrup into a cup of hot or cold water to serve.
Notes
- Do not reduce sugar; it’s essential for preservation.
- Use granulated sugar if rock sugar is unavailable; refrigerate once dissolved.
- Discard any jar showing mold.
- Substitute with Meyer lemons and oranges if yuzu is unavailable.
- Add honey, ginger, or spices like cinnamon or star anise for variation.
- Prep Time: 1 hour
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Syrup / Beverage Base
- Method: No-cook, Fermentation
- Cuisine: Japanese / Korean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon syrup