For Koreans, cider isn’t just a drink—it’s practically a lifestyle. Whether you’re enjoying it with pizza or a burger, its refreshing zing is always a crowd-pleaser. But what about when that fizzy magic fades, and you’re left with flat cider? Don’t toss it just yet! Believe it or not, there are plenty of creative ways to put that leftover cider to use. Here are seven unexpected hacks for flat cider you probably haven’t thought of.
1. Banish Stubborn Stains
Flat cider is surprisingly good at lifting stains from clothes. Thanks to its sugar content (about 10%), it has a slightly sticky texture that makes it perfect for tackling those pesky spots. If you’ve got a stain from the sauce or a drink, just spray a little cider on the area, let it sit for a bit, then gently rub it away. Voilà—good as new!
2. Rescue Hardened Nail Polish
Do you have nail polish that’s turned gloopy after just a few uses? Flat cider to the rescue! Just add a few drops to your nail polish bottle. Unlike acetone, cider doesn’t thoroughly mix with the polish, which helps keep it from hardening again. It’s an easy and budget-friendly way to restore your favorite shade.
3. Smooth Out Leftover Ssamjang
Ssamjang (the savory Korean dipping sauce) can sometimes harden after sitting in the fridge. Don’t throw it out! Stir in a little flat cider, and it’ll soften right up. The best part? You get that smooth, spreadable texture back without losing any of its delicious flavor.
4. Keep Flowers Fresher, Longer
Want to keep your flowers looking fresh and vibrant? Pour some flat cider into your vase! Thanks to osmosis, the flowers will absorb water more efficiently. Plus, using cold cider can help prevent the stems from rotting, giving your blooms a longer life.
5. Sweeten Up Your Chogochujang
Chogochujang, the tangy, spicy Korean chili paste, is a must-have at any table. But if you want to tone down the heat and give it a little sweetness, flat cider is your secret weapon. Add a splash of cider along with some sugar, minced garlic, and vinegar, and you’ve got the perfect balance of flavors.
6. Add Crunch to Kkakdugi
Kkakdugi (cubed radish kimchi) is known for its delicious crunch, but if you want to take it to the next level, flat cider can help. After mixing the radish with red pepper powder, minced garlic, and salted shrimp, pour in about half a cup of cider and let it sit for half a day. The cider adds a refreshing sweetness and boosts the crunch factor.
7. Eliminate Meat Odors
If you’re prepping meat and want to get rid of any unpleasant smells, marinate it in flat cider for about an hour before cooking. It’ll neutralize those odors and tenderize the meat, giving you a tastier, juicier result.
So, the next time you find yourself with leftover flat cider, don’t toss it! From kitchen hacks to beauty fixes, cider is the ultimate multitasker. Try these tricks, and you’ll see just how versatile this fizzy drink can be.
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