Quality characteristics of Korean traditional rice wine (Takju) prepared by addition of green pepper

Abstract

Makgeolli, frequently called Takju, a famous Korean traditional rice wine, has long been prepared and consumed in Korea. Takju consumption in Korea has been increased because of its nutritional and functional values. The objective of the present study was to investigate the chemical characteristics, color values, 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activities, total phenolic contents, and sensory characteristics of Takju. Green peppers enhanced the antioxidant potential, and the overall acceptance of pepper Takju. Moreover, unfavorable effects of green peppers were not observed on the basic chemical and organoleptic properties, but imparted favorable properties on pepper Takju. The appropriate amount of green peppers to be added to the second phase of Takju fermentation was about 9% of the total rice for fermentation. The results of the present study revealed that, an addition of optimum amount of green peppers could enhance the antioxidant potentials and also the overall acceptance of Takju.