Maesil-ju

Maesil-ju is a traditional liqueur made with small-sized Asian plums (Prunus mume). Either unripe green or ripe yellow fruits can be used, sometimes even a mixture of both varieties. The drink is traditionally produced by steeping the fruit, together with sugar, in soju – traditional Korean spirit usually distilled from rice.

The combination is macerated for at least several weeks until the beverage attains its distinctive golden color and bitter-sweet flavor. The fruit is usually strained, though several plums can be left inside jars or bottles. Maesil-ju is traditionally enjoyed neat, served in small shot glasses.