Homemade natural juice

Homemade natural juice - A burst of vitamins in a glass

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Juicing time: 5 minutes
Total: 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4

When it comes to natural juices, a mix of apples, carrots, and beetroot is not only a delicious choice but also an extremely healthy option. This vibrant juice is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, making it perfect for starting your day or giving you an energy boost at any time of the day.

The history of natural juices is fascinating, with deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures. Over time, people have used juices to maintain their health, and the combination of fruits and vegetables is an excellent way to benefit from essential nutrients in a concentrated form.

Ingredients:
- 5 apples (preferably sweeter ones, like green or red)
- 2 carrots (sweet carrots add an interesting touch)
- 1 beetroot (opt for a smaller one if you prefer a milder taste)
- Juice of one lemon (about 2-3 tablespoons, to add a hint of freshness)
- Ice cubes (optional, for a refreshing juice)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by washing the apples well under cold running water to remove any impurities. It is important to use organic apples if possible, to avoid pesticides. Peel the carrots and beetroot. These vegetables are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, and beetroot is known for its detoxifying properties.

2. Cutting the ingredients:
Cut the apples into larger pieces, without removing the core, as the seeds are not harmful in small amounts. The carrots and beetroot can be cut into slices or cubes, making them easier to process in the juicer.

3. Juicing:
Use a fruit juicer to extract the juice from the mixture of apples, carrots, and beetroot. If you don’t have a juicer, you can use a powerful blender, mixing the ingredients with a little water, then straining the juice through a cheesecloth or fine sieve. This is an essential step, as the remaining pulp can be used later in smoothies or various recipes (don’t throw it away!).

4. Adding lemon juice:
Once you have obtained the juice, add the lemon juice and mix well. The lemon juice not only enhances the flavor but also helps preserve the vibrant color of the juice. Additionally, the vitamin C from lemon supports the immune system.

5. Adjusting the consistency:
If the juice is too thick for your taste, you can add a little water. This is a useful trick, especially if you prefer a thinner juice.

6. Serving:
Pour the juice into glasses and, if desired, add 3-4 ice cubes to chill it. This juice is wonderful served immediately, but it can also be kept in the refrigerator for a few hours.

Nutritional benefits:
This natural juice is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, K, and B6. Apples are rich in antioxidants and fiber, carrots support eye health due to their beta-carotene content, and beetroot provides a significant amount of folate, essential for cell production. Regular consumption of fruit and vegetable juice can contribute to improved digestion and detoxification of the body.

Serving suggestions and variations:
- You can also add other ingredients, such as fresh ginger for an extra flavor and anti-inflammatory benefits.
- A delicious variation would be to replace beetroot with celery, offering a lighter taste and a crunchy texture.
- Try combining the juice with a few fresh mint leaves for a refreshing spring flavor.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other fruits or vegetables?
Absolutely! You can experiment with pears, oranges, or even spinach to create a customized blend.

2. Is it necessary to strain the juice?
No, if you prefer a denser juice, you can consume the juice with pulp. However, for a smoother texture, straining is recommended.

3. How long can the juice be kept?
It’s best to consume the juice immediately after preparation, but you can keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

To maximize the benefits and flavor of this natural juice, experiment with various combinations of fruits and vegetables. It’s a fantastic way to start your day, hydrate, and feel revitalized. Enjoy every sip and transform your morning routine into a flavorful and healthy experience!