Watermelon Soju

Name: Watermelon Soju
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 8 serving(s)
Ingredients: 1 10 1/2-pound seedless watermelon; 1 375-milliliter bottle soju, chilled; 3 tbsp. fresh lime juice, plus lime wheels for garnish; 1 12-ounce can lemon-lime soda, chilled; Mint sprigs, for garnish

This fruity soju cocktail is served straight from the rind.

By Susan ChoungPublished: Aug 2, 2025

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watermelon soju. soju is a clear\, neutral korean spirit usually distilled from grains. cocktails. summer drinks.

mike garten

Yields:

8 serving(s)

Total Time:

20 mins

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Who needs a punch bowl when you have a big melon? We hollowed out a watermelon, using the fruit to make this Korean drinking staple. Cool, refreshing, and fun, the punch calls for soju, the traditional Korean spirit that is crisp and neutral like vodka but has about half of the alcohol by volume. Serve this crowd fave at a backyard barbecue or your next beachside party.

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Ingredients

1
10 1/2-pound seedless watermelon
1
375-milliliter bottle soju, chilled
3 Tbsp.
fresh lime juice, plus lime wheels for garnish
1
12-ounce can lemon-lime soda, chilled
Mint sprigs, for garnish

Directions

1. Step 1Wash and dry watermelon. Working on cutting board, place melon on its side and cut thin slice off stem end to make flat base. Turn watermelon and cut 11/2 inches to 2 inches off other end to expose flesh.
2. Step 2Stand melon on base end, then scoop out all watermelon flesh, making sure to keep base intact. (You should have about 12 cups watermelon flesh.)
3. Step 3Transfer watermelon flesh to blender and puree until smooth. Strain through mesh sieve into large measuring cup (you should have about 7 cups juice).
4. Step 4Fill watermelon about three-quarters of the way with ice cubes. Stir in half each of watermelon juice, soju, and lime juice, then gently stir in half of lemon-lime soda.
5. Step 5Ladle watermelon soju into ice-filled glasses and garnish with mint and lime wheels if desired. Refill watermelon with ice and repeat stirring for remaining juices, soju and soda as needed.