Cheongju (beverage)

Cheongju is a type of alcoholic drink that comes from Korea. It's made from rice, which is cooked and then mixed with something called nuruk. Nuruk is a special kind of mold that helps to break down the rice, turning it into a sugary liquid.

Once the rice has been mixed with nuruk, it's put into a big jar with water and left to ferment for a while. Fermentation is like cooking the rice some more, but without heat. It takes a few days for the cheongju to be ready.

After the fermentation is done, the cheongju is strained to remove all of the solids. What's left is a clear, yellowish liquid that tastes a bit like wine or sake. Cheongju has a mild flavour, and it's not too sweet or too strong. Some people like to drink it cold or at room temperature, while others like it warmed up a bit.

In Korea, cheongju is often served with food or as a toast at special occasions, like weddings or holidays. It's a tasty and traditional drink that many people enjoy!