Rice Nuruk 이화곡

Authentic Rice-Nuruk Makgeolli

In this class, you’ll learn how to make 이화곡 (Ihwa-gok), a traditional rice nuruk that transforms the way Makgeolli develops flavor, texture, and aroma. Unlike wheat-based nuruk, Ihwa-gok creates deeper sweetness, softer acidity, and a fragrant, rounded profile that you can’t achieve any other way.

Learning this method also opens the door to brewing 이화주 (Ihwa-ju) — a thick, dessert-like Makgeolli enjoyed especially by women during the Joseon Dynasty. With its creamy body and natural floral sweetness, Ihwa-ju represents one of Korea’s most elegant and historically treasured brews.

By understanding how Ihwa-gok works, you gain access to a whole new world of traditional recipes, subtle flavor variations, and the craftsmanship behind premium Makgeolli.

What You'll Learn and Make

This rice nuruk class focuses on cultivating natural wild-yeast fermentation cultures used in Korean traditional recipes. You’ll learn how to create a naturally fermented starter that brings depth, character, and unique styles to your Makgeolli.

  • How to prepare and shape traditional Ihwa-gok (rice nuruk)
  • The fermentation science behind nuruk and how it changes flavor
  • How to guide fermentation from start to finish wifh confidence
  • Makgeolli Recipes using Ihwaju

Class Details & What’s Included

  • All ingredients and equipment provided
  • Makgeolli Tasting and light Korean snacks
  • PDF Files with resources
  •  Q&A Session

백구생

Making ihwaju with Baekusaeng

Unlock the Secrets of 이화주 (Ihwa-ju)

A Sweet Makgeolli Dessert

Two Ways to Experience This Tradition

이화주 (Ihwa-ju) is a traditional Korean sweet rice wine, often regarded as a dessert version of Makgeolli. With its delicate, fragrant flavors, crafting 이화주 requires special techniques to ensure the perfect balance, making it a more intricate brew than regular Makgeolli.

You can enjoy this class as a stand-alone 이화곡 lesson, or you can choose the Ihwa-ju Making Course, where you learn both the base Ihwagok and how it transforms into Ihwa-ju.

Simply select your preferred option when booking.

Ginger Makgeolli

Join a Class!

Explore the art of crafting authentic rice nuruk.

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Frequently asked questions

1. What will I learn in the Ihwaju Making Experience

In this class, you’ll learn how to make rice nuruk (Ihwagok) and a unique Makgeolli dessert called Ihwaju. We’ll guide you through the process of creating a rice flour-based nuruk, along with a different rice preparation technique that will open the door to more traditional recipes.

It’s a hands-on experience that brings both history and flavor to your brewing journey!

Ihwaju is a unique and rare Makgeolli dessert that even many Korean locals aren’t familiar with. It has a rich, creamy texture with a mildly sweet and tangy flavor, making it a versatile treat. You can enjoy it on its own as a light, refreshing dessert or get creative by incorporating it into other dishes like cakes, ice creams, or even cocktails to add a unique Korean twist.

It’s a hidden gem in Korean traditional alcohol culture, offering a modern take on a centuries-old brewing method. Perfect for adventurous brewers and foodies looking to expand their repertoire!

No home-brewing experience? No problem! We’ll show you how making Makgeolli feels more like cooking — fun, approachable, and creative. It’s an inviting journey, and we’re proud to have helped hundreds of homebrewers start their Makgeolli adventures all around the world!

Having trouble with PayPal? No worries! We also accept payments through WISE, STRIPE, or if you’re in Korea, you can make a bank transfer. Just send us an email, and we’ll provide all the details to help you complete your checkout smoothly!