(Apple, Beetroot, Carrot) and Cucumber Juice

(Apple, Beetroot, Carrot) and Cucumber Juice

This juice is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it a refreshing and healthy drink.

Yields: 1-2 servings Prep time: 10-15 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 medium beetroot (beet), peeled and chopped
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
• 1/2 medium cucumber, chopped (you can peel it or leave the skin on, depending on preference)
• 1 green apple (optional, but highly recommended for sweetness and to balance the earthy flavor of beetroot), cored and chopped
• 1/2 inch ginger (optional, for a little kick and added health benefits), peeled
• Water (as needed, to adjust consistency)
• Ice cubes (optional, for serving)

Equipment:

• Blender or Juicer
• Fine-mesh sieve or nut milk bag (if using a blender)
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups/spoons

Instructions:

If using a Blender:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Wash all the produce thoroughly. Peel the beetroot, carrots, and ginger (if using). Chop the beetroot, carrots, cucumber, and apple into smaller, manageable pieces that will fit easily into your blender.
2. Blend: Place the chopped beetroot, carrots, cucumber, apple, and ginger (if using) into your blender.
3. Add Liquid: Add about 1/2 cup to 1 cup of water to start. You can add more later if needed to achieve your desired consistency.
4. Blend Until Smooth: Blend on high speed until the mixture is as smooth as possible. This may take 2-4 minutes, depending on your blender. Scrape down the sides as needed.
5. Strain (Optional, but Recommended for Smooth Juice):
   • Place a fine-mesh sieve over a large bowl or pitcher.
   • Pour the blended mixture into the sieve.
   • Using a spoon or spatula, press down on the pulp to extract as much juice as possible.
   • For an even smoother juice, you can line the sieve with a cheesecloth or use a nut milk bag and squeeze the pulp.
6. Adjust Consistency: If the juice is too thick, add a little more water and stir well.
7. Taste and Serve: Taste the juice and adjust sweetness if desired (though the apple usually provides enough). Pour over ice cubes and serve immediately.

If using a Juicer:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Wash all the produce thoroughly. Peel the beetroot, carrots, and ginger (if using). Chop the beetroot, carrots, cucumber, and apple into pieces that will fit into your juicer’s feeder chute.
2. Juice: Feed the prepared ingredients into your juicer, alternating between softer and harder ingredients for optimal juicing.
3. Serve: The juicer will separate the juice from the pulp. Collect the fresh juice in a glass or pitcher.
4. Taste and Serve: Taste the juice. You can add a little water if it’s too concentrated, or serve over ice.

Tips and Variations:

• Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter juice, you can add another apple, a date, or a touch of honey or maple syrup.
• Tang: A squeeze of lemon or lime juice can add a nice zesty flavor and extra Vitamin C.
• Other Add-ins:
  • Spinach or Kale: For an extra boost of greens.
  • Mint Leaves: For a refreshing touch.
  • Turmeric: Another great anti-inflammatory ingredient.
• Storage: This juice is best consumed immediately to get the maximum nutrients. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Some nutrient loss may occur over time.
• Pulp: Don’t throw away the pulp if you’re using a juicer or straining! You can use it in muffins, crackers, or compost it.

Enjoy your fresh, homemade, and healthy juice!