Sour Plum Drink (Suanmeitang)

6 steps. Take it one step at a time.

1. 01

   Rinse the smoked plums, hawthorn berries, licorice root, tangerine peel

   Rinse the smoked plums, hawthorn berries, licorice root, tangerine peel, and roselle under cold running water to remove any dust.

2. 02

   Place the rinsed ingredients

   Place the rinsed ingredients in a large pot with 2 liters (2.1 qt) of water and let them soak for 30 to 60 minutes.

   1 hr
3. 03

   Bring the pot to a boil

   Bring the pot to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 45 to 60 minutes until the liquid is fragrant and concentrated.

   1 hr
4. 04

   Add the rock sugar

   Add the rock sugar to the pot and stir until it is completely dissolved.

5. 05

   Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve

   Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a pitcher, discarding the solids. Stir in the dried sweet osmanthus or sprinkle it on top.

6. 06

   Allow the drink to cool

   Allow the drink to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until cold before serving.