Misugaru Latte (Korean Multigrain Shake)

Start your day with a healthy homemade Misugaru Latte (Misutgaru Latte). This Korean multigrain smoothie is not only nutritious but also delicious, offering a rustic, nutty flavor.

It’s filling and can serve as a quick breakfast on the go. Plus, it’s a perfect drink to cool down on a hot summer day!

During my senior year of high school, my days were very long. My alarm went off at 6am and by 7am I was out the door, headed to school. I usually arrived at school around 7.30am and my day didn’t end there until 11pm – an incredibly long day filled with intense studying.

I wasn’t alone in this grueling routine, but I still knew I needed a good balance of food to keep going or “survive” as I would say.

A traditional Korean breakfast – complete with rice, soup and various Korean side dishes – was my usual morning fuel. However, on those mornings when I overslept or found myself staying out late, my mother had the perfect solution: a multigrain smoothie known as Misugaru Latte. She would hand it to me as I ran out the door, making sure I had the energy to get through another long day.

What is Misugaru

Misugaru (measuring powder) or Misutgaru (미숫가루) is a mixed multigrain powder traditionally made with a combination of steamed, toasted, and ground grains.

Common grains used include sweet rice, brown rice, barley, black rice, Job’s tears, black beans, oats, soybeans and sesame seeds (참깨) etc. Typically, each box of misugaru contains five to twenty different cereals, depending on the brand.

For those looking for a personalized touch, you have the option to create your own cereal mix. This is a common practice in Korea, where people take their favorite grains to a rice cake shop or mill (떡집/방앗간) and request customized misugaru powder.

While this may be difficult if you live in a country with limited Korean outlets, it offers the opportunity to customize the composition of the cereal to suit your tastes and dietary preferences.

The picture below gives you an idea of ​​what misugaru powder looks like. Just a heads up, this specific brand includes peanuts, so if you’re allergic, be sure to look at the ingredient list even more carefully.

The price of this smooth sand-colored powder can vary greatly, from $10 to $40, depending on the brand and quantity.

It is also worth noting that misugaru has gained popularity among those following weight loss diets, thanks to its rich protein and dietary fiber content, in addition to its low calorie content.

Where to find Misugaru and Misugaru Latte

You can find misugaru in most Korean grocery stores. Each store offers different brands that may not be available elsewhere, so please don’t ask which misugaru brand is the best. 😉 My advice is to read the ingredients label and choose the one you like best. Some of them include sugar, so I try to avoid them. I prefer to add sweetener according to my taste when making misugaru latte.

If you are in Korea and want to try misugaru latte, you can easily find it in popular places like Sulbing (south), Paik Dabang (south), Mega Coffee (south), and Caffe Bene (south). Interestingly, at Mega Coffee and Caffe Bene they call it Ogok Latte (오곡 라떼) instead of Misugaru Latte, which directly translates to five-grain milk.

How to store Misugaru

Usually, after opening the package, I transfer the misugaru to an airtight or BPA-free glass container. While some brands provide resealable packages, I find it best to move the contents into a container, especially if I don’t plan on using it all within a week.

I also like to keep it in the freezer to extend its shelf life. While storing it at room temperature is feasible for a few months, the shelf life tends to be shorter due to factors such as humidity and temperature, which play a crucial role.

How to have fun

When it comes to making a misugaru latte (a Korean multigrain smoothie), the possibilities are endless! Here are some options you might consider:

• Sweeten it with a touch of sugar or honey.
• Blend it with water or milk.
• Change the consistency by adding extra water or milk for a lighter drink, or more misugaru if you prefer it thicker.
• Enjoy it hot or cold: add some ice cubes for a cool summer surprise.
• Shake it using a shakerA mixeror simply mix it well with a teaspoon.

Traditionally, misugaru is enjoyed mixed with water, sugar and ice, a popular choice during the sweltering summer months. My grandmother used to prepare it just like that. However, I have to admit, it often came out quite dense and lumpy, and the flavors seemed a little unbalanced. To be honest, it wasn’t my favorite way to enjoy it.

Here is the recipe for misugaru latte, just like my mom made it. I find it incredibly delicious and satisfying, and I hope you will too. Enjoy your meal!

Ingredients for Misugaru Latte

• 2 tbsp misugaru (Korean Roasted Multigrain Powder)
• 1.5 cups milk (replace with water if preferred)
• 2 ice cubes (add more according to your taste)
• 1.5 tablespoon honey (alternatively you can use sugar)

* 1 tablespoon = 15ml, 1 cup = 250ml

How to prepare Misugaru milk

Combine the listed ingredients in a blender and blend until well integrated. If you prefer to keep ice cubes in their solid form, use a shaker bottle instead. Alternatively you can also use a spoon to vigorously stir the mixture and then add the ice cubes.

Other Korean drinks you might like

If you like misugaru latte, you might also enjoy exploring these other delicious Korean drinks.

Do you like Korean food? Explore our site for more authentic Korean recipes, including how to create the perfect Korean BBQ at home or other simple Korean dishes. Plus, never miss a new recipe by signing up for our newsletter and join us in celebrating Korean cuisine!