Refreshing Soju Yogurt Cocktail: Your New Favorite Korean Drink Recipe
Discover the delightful fusion of traditional Korean Soju with the creamy, tangy goodness of yogurt in this incredibly easy-to-make cocktail. With just three simple ingredients, you can craft a sweet, refreshing, and surprisingly bright drink that’s perfect for any occasion. Get ready to shake up your drink routine and experience a taste of Korea!
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About This Korean Yogurt Soju Cocktail
Prepare to be captivated by this unique Soju yogurt cocktail, a delightful blend that promises to become a new favorite. You might initially raise an eyebrow at the thought of a yogurt-based drink, but this three-ingredient wonder is surprisingly bright, light, and bursting with flavor. Far from the typical classic cocktails found in the Western world, this Korean-inspired concoction offers a fun and exotic twist that’s gaining immense popularity. It’s a perfect example of how traditional spirits can be transformed into something truly special and universally appealing.
While a yogurt drink might seem unconventional to some, it’s a beloved staple in Korea and across much of Asia, particularly known for its refreshing qualities. The smooth, tangy profile of yogurt perfectly complements the clean taste of Soju, creating a harmonious and utterly refreshing beverage. What makes this particular Soju cocktail truly stand out is its incredible versatility. Whether you prefer a stronger kick or a milder, sweeter sip, the possibilities for customization are virtually endless. You can easily adjust the proportions to suit your palate, experiment with different strengths of Soju, or even explore a wide array of flavored Soju varieties. This adaptability ensures that every glass can be uniquely tailored to your taste, making it a perfect choice for both seasoned cocktail enthusiasts and those new to the world of Korean spirits.
What is Soju? The Korean Spirit Explained
Soju is a renowned clear, distilled spirit originating from Korea, celebrated for its smooth and clean flavor profile. Often referred to as “Korean vodka,” it holds a significant place in Korean culture and social gatherings. Traditionally, it’s crafted through the fermentation of grains such as rice, wheat, or barley, though modern versions sometimes incorporate other starches like sweet potatoes or tapioca. This meticulous distillation process yields a spirit that is remarkably versatile, making it an excellent base for a wide variety of cocktails. Unlike many Western spirits, Soju’s alcohol by volume (ABV) can vary significantly, ranging from a relatively mild 16% to a robust 45% or even higher, offering options for every preference and occasion.
Its inherent neutrality allows it to blend seamlessly with an extensive range of flavors, from sweet and fruity concoctions to more savory or even spicy mixtures. This adaptability is precisely why Soju is a cornerstone of Korean drinking culture and has been gaining traction globally as a flexible spirit. My own journey with Soju began years ago, spurred by the global phenomenon of Korean pop culture, particularly during the peak popularity of artists like PSY. When he released his own line of Soju, it was the perfect excuse to dive into making my own Soju cocktails. It was through this exploration that I discovered and ultimately adapted this classic Soju yogurt cocktail recipe, transforming it into the delightful version you’re about to experience. It’s a testament to Soju’s ability to inspire creative and incredibly tasty drink combinations that cater to diverse palates.
(Note: This recipe has been updated and refined from its original posting on November 22, 2013, to bring you the best possible version of this fantastic drink, ensuring improved clarity and detail.)
Essential Ingredients for Your Soju Cocktail
Crafting this delicious Soju yogurt cocktail is incredibly simple, requiring just three key ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and some tips for choosing the best options to ensure a perfect blend of flavors:
- Soju: As the star of the show, Soju is a clear, distilled Korean spirit that forms the alcoholic base of this delightful drink. It comes in a wide range of alcohol content and flavors. For this recipe, we often lean towards a stronger 45% ABV unflavored Soju to give the cocktail a noticeable kick, similar to a standard spirit like vodka. However, the beauty of Soju is its adaptability. Feel free to choose a lower ABV (around 16-25%) if you prefer a milder drink, making it more akin to a wine cooler. You can also dive into the exciting world of flavored Soju varieties. Popular fruit flavors like peach, strawberry, or grape can add an extra layer of sweetness and complexity, making your cocktail even more unique and vibrant.
- Drinkable Yogurt: This is where the creamy tang comes in, defining the unique character of this cocktail. Our top go-to choice is Yakult, a popular probiotic sweetened milk beverage that offers a distinctive, slightly citrusy, and sweet flavor profile. Yakult is readily available in many major grocery stores, particularly in the international aisle, and Asian markets. While other drinkable yogurts can be used, we strongly advise against Greek yogurt-based options. Their typically much higher tartness and thicker, sometimes grainy, consistency can overpower the delicate balance of the cocktail, leading to an overly sour or heavy taste that detracts from the refreshing experience. Stick to lighter, sweeter, and less viscous drinkable yogurts for the best results.
- Lemon-Lime Soda: To add irresistible fizz and a refreshing sweetness, a lemon-lime soda is essential. Sprite is our preferred brand, known for its crisp, clean taste that perfectly complements the other ingredients without being overly dominant. However, any similar lemon-lime soda will work just fine. If you’re looking to reduce sugar intake or prefer a less sweet drink than soda provides, you have an excellent alternative: sparkling water. When using sparkling water, we recommend preparing a simple syrup (equal parts sugar and hot water, stirred until dissolved, then cooled) and adding it incrementally (starting with 1/4 ounce) and tasting as you go. This method allows you to achieve your desired level of sweetness without making the cocktail too syrupy or bland.
Must-Have Cocktail Tools
You don’t need a professional bartending setup to whip up this delicious Soju cocktail. Just a few basic pieces of equipment will get the job done efficiently and ensure a perfectly mixed drink:
- Cocktail Shaker: This is essential for thoroughly chilling and mixing your Soju and yogurt drink ingredients to perfection. The shaking process also helps to aerate the yogurt slightly, creating a smoother texture.
- Cocktail Strainer: To ensure a smooth, ice-free pour into your serving glass, a good cocktail strainer is key. This prevents unwanted ice shards or muddled fruit (if you choose to add it) from ending up in your final drink.
- Cocktail Stirring Spoon: While the primary mix is shaken, a long stirring spoon is ideal for a gentle final stir once you add your soda. This helps to lightly combine the bubbly soda with the creamy base without losing too much of its effervescence.
- Double Jigger: While not strictly mandatory, a double jigger helps with precise measurements of your Soju and yogurt, ensuring consistent results every time you make the cocktail.
As for serving, presentation makes a difference! The stylish glasses featured in our photos were originally found at IKEA, offering a modern and minimalist look. For a similar aesthetic, consider these Viski spinning whiskey glasses, which add a touch of elegance and uniqueness to any drink, enhancing the overall experience.
How to Easily Make a Soju Yogurt Cocktail
Creating this delicious Korean Soju yogurt cocktail is incredibly straightforward, making it an ideal choice for both seasoned home bartenders and newcomers. Follow these simple steps for a perfectly mixed, refreshing drink every time:
Step 1: Shake It Up!
Begin by filling a cocktail shaker with a generous amount of ice. Pour in your chosen Soju and the drinkable yogurt (like Yakult). Ensure the lid is secured tightly, then shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds. This step is crucial as it thoroughly chills the ingredients and ensures they are perfectly combined, resulting in a smooth and creamy base for your cocktail. Once shaken, use your cocktail strainer to strain the mixture into a cocktail glass that’s already filled with fresh ice. This prevents the drink from becoming diluted by the shaking ice and keeps your cocktail refreshingly cold.
Step 2: Add the Bubbles
Once the perfectly chilled Soju and yogurt mixture is in your glass, it’s time to add the effervescence that completes this vibrant cocktail. Gently top off the glass with your preferred lemon-lime soda (such as Sprite). Give it a brief, gentle stir with a cocktail spoon to lightly combine the bubbly soda with the creamy base. Be careful not to over-stir, as this can cause you to lose too much of the carbonation. A quick, subtle stir is all that’s needed. Serve immediately and savor the delightful balance of sweet, tangy, and refreshing flavors!
Tips and Creative Variations
One of the best aspects of this Soju yogurt cocktail is how easily it can be customized to suit your personal preferences. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it uniquely your own!
- Experiment with Flavored Soju: The world of Soju is vast and exciting, with countless flavored options available. Beyond the traditional unflavored varieties, you can find delightful fruit-flavored Sojus like strawberry, peach, grape, apple, or even plum. Swapping out plain Soju for a flavored one can completely transform the cocktail, adding new layers of sweetness and aroma. Imagine a strawberry Soju yogurt cocktail for a berry blast, or a peach-flavored one for a summery vibe. Don’t hesitate to combine flavors too – a strawberry and peach Soju mix could be incredibly delicious and complex!
- Adjust to Your Preference: Think of this recipe as a flexible starting point. Your perfect Soju cocktail might have a slightly different ratio of ingredients. If you prefer a more pronounced tangy flavor, increase the amount of drinkable yogurt. For a stronger alcoholic kick, add a little more Soju (being mindful of its ABV). Or, if you find it too sweet or too strong, simply dilute it with more lemon-lime soda or sparkling water. Play around with the measurements until you find the balance that best suits your personal taste profile.
- Opt for Sparkling Water (and DIY Sweetness): If you’re conscious about sugar intake or simply prefer a less sweet drink than soda provides, sparkling water is an excellent alternative. It will still provide that refreshing effervescence without the added sugars of commercial sodas. When using sparkling water, we highly recommend preparing a simple syrup (equal parts sugar and hot water, stirred until dissolved, then cooled) and adding it gradually. Start with a quarter ounce, stir, taste, and add more if needed until you reach your desired level of sweetness. This gives you complete control over the cocktail’s sugar content, allowing for a healthier and customizable option.
- Add a Fruity Garnish: A simple garnish can significantly elevate your cocktail experience, adding both visual appeal and an extra hint of aroma and flavor. A slice of fresh lemon or lime, a few fresh berries (like raspberries or blueberries), or even a sprig of fragrant mint can make your drink look as good as it tastes.
Craving more easy and bubbly cocktail recipes? Explore our collection: Zesty Lemon Mojito | Effervescent Limoncello Spritz | Classic Aperol Spritz | Sweet Strawberry Mimosa
Soju vs. Vodka: Which is Stronger?
This is a common question, and the answer isn’t always straightforward because it largely depends on the specific bottle of Soju you choose. While vodka typically has a consistent alcohol by volume (ABV) of around 40% (80 proof), Soju’s ABV can vary dramatically. You can find modern Soju that’s as mild as a strong wine, with an ABV as low as 16%, or traditional varieties that are significantly stronger, reaching up to 45% or even higher. Therefore, while some weaker Soju brands are certainly less potent than vodka, many premium or traditional Soju varieties can be just as strong, if not stronger, than your average vodka. Always check the label of your Soju bottle to understand its exact alcohol content and adjust your cocktail ratios accordingly to achieve your desired strength and ensure responsible consumption.
Can I Use Flavored Soju in This Recipe?
Absolutely, and we highly encourage it! Flavored Soju is a fantastic way to introduce new dimensions to your Soju yogurt cocktail, allowing for endless creative possibilities. The market is brimming with various flavored Soju options, with fruity varieties being particularly well-suited for this creamy and effervescent drink. Consider using popular fruit-forward Sojus like strawberry, peach, mango, grape, or even apple to create a cocktail that’s uniquely yours. These fruit-forward flavors naturally enhance the sweetness and refreshing qualities of the drink, complementing the tang of the yogurt and making it even more delightful. Don’t be afraid to mix and match different flavored Sojus or try various combinations to discover your ultimate favorite flavor profile!
Adding Fresh Fruit to Your Soju Cocktail
Infusing your Soju yogurt cocktail with fresh fruit is an excellent way to elevate its flavor and add a beautiful visual appeal, making it even more inviting. The natural sweetness and acidity of various fruits can perfectly complement the tangy notes of the yogurt and the crispness of the soda. To add fresh fruit, simply muddle your desired fruit directly in the bottom of your cocktail shaker before adding the Soju and yogurt. Berries like strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries are fantastic choices, as they release their juices and vibrant colors easily when muddled. Sliced peaches, mango cubes, or even a few thin slices of kiwi can also add a wonderful tropical or sweet note. Muddling helps to release the fruit’s essential oils and juices, ensuring maximum flavor extraction and a truly delightful, customized drink with an extra layer of freshness.
Choosing the Best Yogurt for Your Cocktail
The type of drinkable yogurt you choose plays a significant role in the overall flavor and texture of your Soju cocktail, so selecting the right one is key to achieving the desired creamy and tangy balance. Our top recommendation for this recipe is Yakult. This popular probiotic dairy drink, often found in the international or refrigerated sections of major grocery stores and certainly in Asian markets, offers a distinctively sweet, slightly tangy, and subtly citrusy flavor profile. Its thin, smooth consistency makes it ideal for mixing into cocktails without becoming too heavy or clumpy, ensuring a pleasant drinking experience.
While you can experiment with other sweetened drinkable yogurts, it’s crucial to avoid varieties made with Greek yogurt. Greek yogurt-based drinks tend to be much thicker and significantly more tart than traditional drinkable yogurts. Using them in this cocktail can result in an overly sour taste that clashes with the other ingredients, disrupting the refreshing balance we’re aiming for and potentially creating an unappealing texture. Look for smooth, pourable yogurts that are specifically labeled as “drinkable” and preferably have a balanced sweetness to ensure your Soju yogurt cocktail is as delicious as possible.
How Strong is This Soju Yogurt Cocktail?
The strength of your Soju yogurt cocktail is primarily determined by two factors: the alcohol by volume (ABV) of the Soju you select and the ratio of ingredients you choose to use. Soju itself can range widely in potency, from around 16% ABV (comparable to a strong wine or a light liqueur) to higher proofs of 45% ABV or more (closer in strength to vodka). If you opt for a higher-proof Soju, such as one around 45% ABV (which is roughly 90 proof), and follow our recommended recipe proportions, your cocktail will be comparable in strength to a standard mixed drink you’d typically find at a bar. For example, a common mixed drink often contains 1.5 to 2 ounces of spirits. Our recipe calls for 4 ounces of Soju for two cocktails, meaning approximately 2 ounces per serving. If you use a 45% ABV Soju, that’s a significant amount of alcohol per drink. If you prefer a lighter, more sessionable drink, simply choose a lower ABV Soju or adjust the ratio by adding more lemon-lime soda or sparkling water to dilute the alcohol content to your liking.
Other Popular Soju Mixers
Soju’s neutral and clean flavor profile makes it an incredibly versatile spirit, much like vodka. This means you can confidently use Soju in almost any cocktail recipe that calls for vodka, opening up a world of possibilities beyond this delicious yogurt concoction. Its subtle taste allows it to adapt to a myriad of flavors, making it a fantastic base for both simple mixes and more complex creations. For classic and easy mixers, consider these popular choices:
- Fruity Juices: Cranberry juice, orange juice, grapefruit juice, pineapple juice, or even a splash of apple juice are all excellent choices that blend beautifully with Soju’s mild taste, creating refreshing and vibrant drinks.
- Sodas and Carbonated Drinks: Beyond lemon-lime soda (like Sprite), try ginger ale for a spicy kick, tonic water for a bitter note, or even a splash of cola for different flavor profiles. Korean sparkling drinks, such as Chilsung Cider, are also popular local choices for mixing with Soju.
- Energy Drinks: While a “Soju Bomb” or “Somaek” (Soju and beer) are famously potent Korean party drinks, Soju also mixes surprisingly well with energy drinks for a high-energy, vibrant cocktail.
- Teas: For a unique and refreshing twist, green tea or certain fruity iced teas can make for a delightful Soju mix, especially when served cold over ice.
- Other Yogurts/Dairy: While we’ve highlighted Yakult for its specific qualities, other non-Greek, sweetened drinkable yogurts or even milk-based beverages (like a Korean milk soda, Milkis) can be experimented with for different creamy textures and flavors.
Don’t be afraid to get creative! Soju’s adaptability is its greatest strength, allowing you to craft everything from sweet and tangy drinks to more complex, savory, or spicy cocktails to suit any mood or occasion. Its ability to complement so many mixers is what makes it a favorite in Korean households and bars alike.
Seeking inspiration for your next happy hour? Dive into our comprehensive cocktail recipes page for a wide array of delightful concoctions and drink ideas!
What to Serve with Your Soju Yogurt Cocktail
The creamy, slightly sweet, and tangy profile of this Soju yogurt cocktail makes it an excellent companion for a wide array of foods, especially those with bold flavors and a hint of spice. It’s fantastic for balancing out richer, savory dishes or cutting through the heat of spicy fare, making it a versatile drink for various culinary pairings. When planning your menu, gravitate towards crispy snacks and flavorful Korean street foods that offer a delicious contrast to the cocktail’s refreshing qualities.
For appetizers and snacks, you can’t go wrong with something crispy and savory. Our Crispy Korean BBQ Chicken Wings are always a hit, with their irresistible sticky, sweet, and savory sauce providing a perfect counterpoint to the refreshing and creamy drink. Another delightful option is a creamy Crab Rangoon Dip, served with homemade crispy wonton chips – the richness and umami of the dip are beautifully balanced by the cocktail’s brightness and tang.
If you’re looking to turn your happy hour into a full meal, this Soju yogurt cocktail pairs wonderfully with hearty noodle dishes. Consider whipping up a batch of spicy Kimchi Udon for a fiery kick, where the cocktail provides a cooling contrast, or opt for the comforting and aromatic Curry Udon, both of which are quick to prepare and incredibly satisfying. For a heartier, warming option, bowls of Spicy Chicken Ramen offer depth of flavor that complements the cocktail’s refreshing qualities. The versatility of this drink ensures it will enhance almost any meal, especially those with an Asian-inspired twist, making every bite and sip an enjoyable experience.
More Sparkling Cocktail Recipes to Try
If you enjoyed the refreshing fizz and unique flavor profile of this Soju yogurt cocktail, you’ll love exploring other bubbly concoctions that are perfect for any occasion. Expanding your cocktail repertoire with sparkling drinks is a fantastic way to keep your happy hours exciting and full of effervescence. Here are a few more sparkling drink recipes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds:
- A Sparkling Whiskey Sour offers a delightful, lighter, and more effervescent take on the beloved classic whiskey sour, perfect for those who appreciate a whiskey kick with a refreshing, bubbly twist.
- For a burst of fruity flavor and floral notes, try this Blackberry Gin Fizz, which beautifully combines fresh, muddled blackberries with aromatic gin and a delicate touch of sparkling effervescence.
- This easy Aperol Soda is the ideal choice for anyone who savors the delightful bitter-orange notes of Aperol but prefers a simpler, lighter, and less boozy drink than the traditional Aperol Spritz. It’s quick to assemble and wonderfully refreshing.
We truly hope you enjoy crafting and sipping this delightful Soju yogurt cocktail! If you try this recipe, we’d be incredibly grateful if you could leave a star rating on the recipe card below and share your thoughts in the comments section. Your feedback helps us grow, inspires others to try these recipes, and allows us to continually improve our content. We love hearing about your experiences and always make time to respond to every single comment and question you might have.
And of course, don’t forget to tag us on Instagram if you share your creations! Seeing these recipes come to life in your homes – beautifully photographed and creatively presented – is truly our favorite part. It really means the world to us!
Soju Yogurt Cocktail
Equipment
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Double Jigger
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Cocktail Shaker
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OXO Steel Cocktail Strainer
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Cocktail Stirring Spoons
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Rocks Glasses
Ingredients
- 4 oz Soju (unflavored or your favorite fruit flavor)
- 4 oz Lemon-Lime Soda (e.g., Sprite, or sparkling water with optional simple syrup)
- 2 1/2 oz Drinkable Yogurt (Yakult recommended, avoid Greek yogurt varieties for best results)
Instructions
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Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add the measured Soju and drinkable yogurt to the shaker.
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Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds until the mixture is thoroughly chilled and well combined, creating a smooth, creamy base.
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Using a cocktail strainer, strain the chilled Soju-yogurt mixture into two cocktail glasses already filled with fresh ice.
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Top off each glass with lemon-lime soda (or sparkling water). Stir gently with a cocktail spoon to lightly combine the soda without losing too much carbonation.
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Garnish with a lemon slice, fresh berries, or a mint sprig if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your refreshing Korean Soju yogurt cocktail!
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