🇰🇷 South Korea · Drinks
Boricha (Korean Barley Tea)
By eatmundo · July 9, 2026
Boricha is a beloved traditional Korean roasted barley tea, renowned for its nutty, slightly bitter, and deeply refreshing flavor. This naturally caffeine-free beverage is commonly served chilled throughout the year, offering a wholesome and hydrating alternative to water or sugary drinks. It's a comforting staple in Korean households.
Ingredients
check them off as you prepareHow to Make It
- 1
Rinse Roasted Barley: Gently rinse 1/4 cup (50g) of roasted barley under cold running water in a fine-mesh sieve. This helps remove any dust or impurities, ensuring a clean-tasting tea.
- 2
Combine with Water: Transfer the rinsed roasted barley to a large pot, preferably a non-reactive one like stainless steel. Add 8 cups (2 Liters) of cold water to the pot.
- 3
Bring to a Boil: Place the pot over high heat and bring the water and barley mixture to a rolling boil. Watch it carefully to prevent boiling over, as barley can sometimes create a bit of foam.
- 4
Simmer Gently: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for 15-20 minutes. The longer it simmers, the stronger and deeper the barley flavor will become, so adjust to your preference.
- 5
Cool and Strain: Remove the pot from the heat and allow the boricha to cool down to room temperature. This gradual cooling helps to further infuse the barley flavor. Once cool, strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean pitcher, discarding the barley grains.
- 6
Chill and Serve: Place the pitcher of strained boricha in the refrigerator and chill thoroughly for at least 2 hours before serving. Boricha is traditionally enjoyed cold, offering a refreshing and subtly nutty beverage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I re-roast my own barley for boricha?+
Yes, you can roast raw barley in a dry pan over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it turns a deep golden brown and emits a nutty aroma. Let it cool completely before using.
Is boricha caffeine-free?+
Absolutely, boricha is naturally caffeine-free, making it an excellent hydrating choice for any time of day, including before bed, and is safe for children.
How long can I store brewed boricha?+
Brewed boricha should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and is best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness and taste.
Can I drink boricha hot?+
While most commonly served cold, boricha can also be enjoyed warm, especially during colder months. Simply heat a portion in a mug on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Mundo Match
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