What Exactly is Korean Corn Tea?
Korean corn tea, or oksusu-cha (옥수수차), is a traditional grain tea deeply embedded in Korean culinary culture. Unlike traditional teas derived from the Camellia sinensis plant, oksusu-cha is a herbal infusion, or tisane, made by simmering roasted corn kernels in water. The result is a golden-hued, mild, and distinctly nutty beverage with a hint of natural sweetness. Because it contains no tea leaves, it is completely free of caffeine, making it a popular drink for all ages and at any time of day.
The Cultural Significance of Oksusu-cha
In Korea, it is common to serve grain-based teas like corn tea or barley tea (bori-cha) instead of plain water, particularly in restaurants or homes. Oksusu-cha is cherished for its gentle, hydrating properties and its ability to act as a comforting, warming drink during the colder months. It is also served chilled in the summer as a refreshing cooler. This ubiquity highlights its role as more than just a beverage; it's a part of the everyday Korean experience.
The Difference Between Corn Tea and Corn Silk Tea
It is important to distinguish between two related but distinct Korean teas made from corn. While both are caffeine-free, they utilize different parts of the plant and have slightly different flavor profiles.
- Oksusu-cha (Corn Tea): Made from dried and roasted corn kernels. The roasting process gives it a deeper, nuttier flavor. It’s the more common of the two and the one most people refer to when they say “Korean corn tea”.
- Oksusu-suyeom-cha (Corn Silk Tea): Made from the dried corn silk—the yellowish, thread-like fibers inside the corn husk. Corn silk tea has a lighter, milder, and often slightly sweeter flavor. It is also known for being a natural diuretic. For a richer taste, the corn silk is often brewed along with roasted kernels.
Health Benefits of Drinking Oksusu-cha
As a natural, herbal beverage, Korean corn tea offers several health benefits:
- Excellent Hydration: Many Koreans drink oksusu-cha as a flavorful alternative to water, helping to maintain hydration throughout the day.
- Rich in Antioxidants: Both corn kernels and corn silk contain antioxidants that help combat free radicals in the body.
- Diuretic Properties (Especially Corn Silk): Corn silk is a known diuretic in traditional medicine, which can aid in flushing toxins from the urinary tract and reducing water retention.
- Supports Digestion: The tea can help soothe the digestive system and is often consumed after meals.
- Source of Vitamins: Corn tea is a good source of vitamins B6, B12, and C.
How to Make Korean Corn Tea at Home
Making oksusu-cha is a simple and rewarding process. Here’s a basic recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
- ¼ cup roasted corn kernels (available at Korean groceries)
- 6 cups of water
- Optional: a small bunch of dried corn silk for extra flavor and benefit
Instructions:
- Bring to a Boil: Add the water, roasted corn kernels, and corn silk (if using) to a medium-sized pot. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the tea simmer for 15–20 minutes, or longer for a more robust flavor. The tea will turn a beautiful golden-yellow color.
- Strain: Once brewed to your liking, strain the kernels and silk from the liquid.
- Serve: Enjoy the tea hot or let it cool and store it in the refrigerator for a refreshing chilled beverage.
Comparison Table: Korean Corn Tea vs. Other Popular Teas
| Feature | Korean Corn Tea (Oksusu-cha) | Korean Barley Tea (Bori-cha) | Korean Green Tea (Nok-cha) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Ingredient | Roasted corn kernels (and sometimes corn silk) | Roasted barley grains | Camellia sinensis leaves |
| Caffeine Content | Caffeine-free | Caffeine-free | Contains caffeine |
| Flavor Profile | Mild, nutty, slightly sweet, and earthy | Nutty, toasted, often slightly bitter | Grassy, slightly nutty, with varying bitterness |
| Serving | Hot or cold | Hot or cold | Hot or cold |
| Preparation | Simmer roasted kernels in water | Steep roasted grains in hot water | Steep tea leaves in hot water |
| Key Benefit | Hydrating, mildly diuretic (corn silk) | Aids digestion, rich in fiber | Rich in antioxidants, boosts metabolism |
Conclusion: The Final Word on Caffeine
To definitively answer the question: yes, Korean corn tea is completely caffeine-free. Unlike traditional black, green, or oolong teas, oksusu-cha is an herbal infusion brewed from roasted corn, a grain that naturally contains no caffeine. This makes it an ideal beverage for individuals who are sensitive to caffeine, children, or anyone seeking a soothing, hydrating, and naturally sweet drink at any time of the day or night. Its popularity in Korea is a testament to its comforting flavor and simple, clean profile, offering a healthy and flavorful alternative to plain water. To learn more about this and other Korean beverages, visit the Wikipedia page on "Corn tea".
