Lychee Soju is one of those cocktails that’s effortlessly refreshing and just the right amount of sweet. The delicate floral notes of lychee blend beautifully with the smooth, crisp taste of Soju, making it a favorite for warm evenings or casual get-togethers. I’ve made this drink countless times, and I always love how easy it is to tweak based on what I have on hand. Let’s get into how to make this simple, delicious cocktail at home.
Lychee Soju
Ingredients
You’ll need:
- 2 oz (60ml) Soju – A Korean spirit that’s smooth and slightly sweet
- 3 oz (90ml) lychee juice – Store-bought works, but fresh lychee puree adds a richer flavor
- Ice cubes – Enough to fill your glass
- Lychee fruit – For garnish
Glass suggestion: A highball glass is perfect for this drink—it lets the colors and garnish stand out. If you’re feeling fancy, a martini glass adds a touch of elegance.
How to Make Lychee Soju
- Fill a highball glass with ice cubes. Chilling the glass first makes the drink even more refreshing.
- Pour in 2 oz of Soju and 3 oz of lychee juice.
- Stir gently until everything is well mixed.
- Garnish with a lychee fruit on the rim or floating in the drink.
That’s it! A light, fruity cocktail that’s ready in minutes.
Tips & Variations
- Make it less sweet: Use fresh lychee puree instead of juice, or add a splash of sparkling water to balance the sweetness.
- Want a bubbly version? Top it off with sparkling water or club soda for a lighter, fizzy twist.
- Spicy kick: Muddle a small slice of jalapeño in the glass before adding the other ingredients. The heat pairs surprisingly well with the sweetness!
- No Soju? Swap it for vodka for a slightly stronger, more neutral version.
Pairing Suggestions
Lychee Soju is great on its own, but pairing it with the right food makes it even better.
- Spicy Korean dishes – The sweetness of the drink helps cool down spicy flavors. Think kimchi, spicy tteokbokki, or Korean fried chicken.
- Seafood – The fruity notes go well with sushi, grilled shrimp, or light ceviche.
- Light desserts – A fruit tart, sorbet, or coconut pudding complements the lychee’s floral sweetness.
I love sipping this alongside some crispy Korean fried chicken—it’s a match made in heaven!
Make-Ahead & Storage
- Pre-mix for parties: Combine Soju and lychee juice in a pitcher and store in the fridge. Just add ice and garnish when serving.
- Leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a day. The flavors may mellow, so give it a quick stir before serving.
FAQs
Can I make Lychee Soju without alcohol?
Yes! Just replace Soju with sparkling water or lychee tea for a refreshing non-alcoholic version.
How can I make my Lychee Soju less sweet?
Use fresh lychee puree instead of juice, and add a splash of club soda to lighten it up.
What’s the best way to serve this at a party?
Serve in chilled highball glasses with whole lychees as garnish. It looks elegant and is easy to prepare in batches.
Are there any health benefits to this drink?
Lychees are packed with vitamins and antioxidants, but keep in mind that Soju and lychee juice contain sugar. Enjoy in moderation!
Lychee Soju is one of those cocktails that’s hard to get wrong—it’s simple, refreshing, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you keep it classic or play around with variations, it’s a drink that fits any occasion. Cheers! 🍹
