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A colorful bowl of strawberry noodle soup with shrimp, tofu, an egg yolk, and colorful star-shaped garnishes.

Refreshing Korean Watermelon Hwachae (Subak Hwachae)

A vibrant and cooling traditional Korean fruit punch, perfect for summer. This Hwachae recipe combines juicy watermelon, various fresh fruits, and a sweet, fizzy milk base for a delightful treat.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Beverage, Dessert
Cuisine: Korean
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Fruit Base
  • 1/2 medium watermelon about 4-5 lbs, cubed or balled
  • 1 cup strawberries hulled and sliced
  • 1 cup blueberries fresh
  • 1 cup green grapes halved
  • 1/2 cup canned fruit cocktail drained, optional, for variety
For the Liquid Base
  • 2 cups milk cold, full-fat or low-fat
  • 1/2 cup Sprite or clear soda chilled
  • 1/4 cup condensed milk or to taste
  • 1-2 tbsp honey or to taste, optional
For Garnish (Optional)
  • a few leaves fresh mint
  • as needed ice cubes

Equipment

  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Small Mixing Bowl
  • Melon Baller
  • Sharp Knife
  • Cutting Board
  • Ladle

Method
 

Prepare the Fruit
  1. Carefully cut the watermelon in half. Using a melon baller, scoop out round balls of watermelon. Alternatively, cut the watermelon flesh into 1-inch cubes. Place the watermelon in a large mixing bowl.
  2. Hull and slice the strawberries, halve the green grapes, and rinse the blueberries. Add all prepared fresh fruits to the large mixing bowl with the watermelon. If using, drain the canned fruit cocktail and add it to the bowl.
  3. Gently toss the fruits together to combine.
Prepare the Liquid Base
  1. In a separate small mixing bowl, whisk together the cold milk, condensed milk, and honey (if using) until well combined and the condensed milk is fully dissolved.
  2. Just before serving, pour the milk mixture over the prepared fruits in the large mixing bowl.
  3. Add the chilled Sprite or clear soda to the fruit and milk mixture. Gently stir to combine.
Serve
  1. Add a generous amount of ice cubes to the Hwachae, if desired, to keep it extra cold.
  2. Ladle the Refreshing Korean Watermelon Hwachae into individual serving bowls or glasses.
  3. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for an extra touch of freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy chilled.

Notes

• **Variations:** Feel free to customize the fruit selection based on seasonal availability and preference. Other great additions include cantaloupe, honeydew melon, peaches, or even lychees.
• **Sweetness:** Adjust the amount of condensed milk and honey to your desired level of sweetness. For a less sweet option, you can omit the honey.
• **Sparkle:** For a stronger fizzy kick, you can use more soda or a sparkling water alternative. Some recipes also use sparkling cider or a fruit-flavored soda.
• **Storage:** Hwachae is best enjoyed fresh. If you have leftovers, store the fruit and liquid separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Combine just before serving.