Choya Ume Recipe

Instructions

1. 1

   Prepare the Ume Plums

   Rinse the ume plums thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or impurities. Pat them dry with a clean cloth.

2. 2

   Sterilize the Jar

   Sterilize a large glass jar (at least 1-liter capacity) by boiling it in water for 10 minutes. Allow it to cool completely before use.

3. 3

   Layer the Ingredients

   In the sterilized jar, layer the ume plums and sugar. Start with a layer of ume plums, followed by a layer of sugar. Repeat until all the ume plums and sugar are used.

4. 4

   Add Alcohol

   Pour the shochu or vodka over the layered ume plums and sugar, ensuring that the plums are fully submerged.

5. 5

   Seal and Store

   Seal the jar tightly and store it in a cool, dark place for at least 3 months. Shake the jar gently every few weeks to help dissolve the sugar.

6. 6

   Strain and Serve

   After 3 months, strain the liquid into a clean bottle, discarding the plum solids. The resulting ume liqueur can be served chilled or used in cocktails.