Lemon Cheong (Korean Lemon Syrup)

Glass jar of Korean lemon ginger syrup filled with thin lemon slices and honey, set against a dark navy background with soft natural light.

Lemon Cheong (Korean Lemon Syrup)

Bright, sweet, and soothing - this Korean lemon syrup (lemon cheong) is made with thinly sliced lemon, honey, sugar, and a touch of ginger. Enjoy it as a cozy tea in winter, a refreshing sparkling drink in summer, or a homemade tonic anytime.

Course: Drinks

Cuisine: Korean

Keyword: korean lemon syrup, lemon cheong

Servings: (makes 1.5 L syrup)

Calories: 76kcal

Author: Sue Pressey

Ingredients

640 g lemons (22.6 oz, about 5 to 6)
60 g fresh ginger (2.1 oz)
350 g honey (12.3 oz)
350 g white sugar (12.3 oz)

Instructions

Prepare and slice the lemons. Scrub the lemons thoroughly in hot water with a little vinegar and baking soda to remove any wax or residue. Rinse well and pat them completely dry with kitchen paper. Then slice them thinly and remove all the seeds, as they can make the syrup taste bitter.
Prepare the ginger. Peel the ginger and either finely grate it or blend it until finely minced (slice it thinly first if using a blender). Wrap the grated or blended ginger in clean muslin or cheesecloth and squeeze firmly to extract the juice.
Combine everything. In a large mixing bowl, combine the lemon slices and ginger juice. Add the sugar and honey, then mix gently until all the lemon slices are evenly coated and the sugar starts to dissolve.
Pack. Using clean tongs, pack the mixture neatly into a sterilized glass jar. Seal the lid and let it sit at room temperature for 24 hours to help the sugar dissolve and the flavors meld.
Store and serve. After 24 hours at room temperature, give the jar a gentle stir or shake to help the sugar dissolve. Then transfer it to the refrigerator. Shake it gently every now and then while it matures to keep the mixture evenly combined. The lemon syrup will be ready to use after 3 days. Store it in the fridge and enjoy within 3 months.

Notes

Serving Suggestions

Warm Lemon Tea - Stir 2 to 3 tablespoons of lemon syrup into a cup of hot water. It makes a lightly sweet, tangy, and warming tea with a gentle ginger note — perfect for chilly mornings or when you need something soothing to sip.

Lemonade or Sparkling Ade - Mix 2 to 3 tablespoons of syrup with a cup of sparkling water and some ice for a refreshing, homemade lemonade. Bright, zesty, and perfect for hot days.

Cooking & Baking - Add a spoonful to marinades, dressings, or sauces for a touch of citrusy sweetness. It’s lovely drizzled over salad or whisked into a vinaigrette.

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