For generations, Koreans have been enjoying the nourishing multigrain shake known as misugaru latte or misutgaru latte. Locals enjoy it as a quick breakfast or as a cool drink in the hot summer.
Misugaru is a powder made from roasted and ground grains, cereals and beans. It is a rich source of vitamins, minerals, fibre, and protein. This milkshake can be served on the side of any meal as a healthy supplement.
What Is Misugaru?
Misugaru, also known as misutgaru, is a traditional multigrain powder made of crushed, roasted, steamed grains. Barley, oats, quinoa, sweet rice, brown rice, lentils, soybean, millet, adzuki beans, and other grains are pounded and combined to make this powder. Depending on the brand, each powder container comprises five to twenty different grains. Since it has less calories and caffeine content, even children and elders can drink it.
Where To Find Misugaru
Most Korean grocery stores sell misugaru. It is advised to look at the ingredients label to verify which suits your needs. If you are trying to manage blood sugar levels, you can pick unsweetened versions and use natural sweeteners in the shake. Misugaru latte, also known as ogok latte (five-grain latte), is served in popular cafés in Korea, including Coffee Gondry, Mega Coffee, and Caffe Bene.
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How to Store
After opening the packet, move the misugaru to an airtight glass container. No matter what packet the powder comes in, the best practice is to transfer it to an airtight jar to avoid spoilage. You can also keep it in the freezer to extend its shelf life. Although it can last for a few months at room temperature, the high temperature and humidity can spoil it fast.
Health Benefits
Misugaru lattes contain a large amount of fibre, which improves digestion and increases feelings of fullness. Good fats and calcium come from sesame seeds, and proteins and isoflavones are added from black soybeans. Multiple grains in the powder keep you active throughout the day by supplying consistent energy flow.
How To Prepare
It's easy and quick to make misugaru latte at home. In the basic preparation, the powder is blended with ice, milk or water, and sweetener.
Ingredients
- 2-3 tablespoons of misugaru powder
- 1 cup of milk (or water, if preferred)
- 1.5 tablespoons of honey or sugar (or sweetener of choice, to taste)
- 2-3 ice cubes (adjust to preference)
Process
- In a blender, combine all the ingredients until smooth
- To suit your taste, adjust the amount of sweetener and misugaru.
- Enjoy it cold.
Customisation Tips
- Add a little amount of condensed milk, banana, or sugar syrup to cater to your sugar cravings.
- You can also use non-dairy milk substitutes like soy or almond milk if you are lactose intolerant.
- Make the consistency thicker by adding more misugaru powder or more water or milk for a runny texture.
- You can enjoy it hot also.