Fresh Carrot and Orange Juice

Fresh Carrot and Orange Juice

This refreshing and healthy juice combines the sweetness of carrots with the tangy brightness of oranges. It’s packed with vitamins and antioxidants!

Yields: 1-2 servings Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 0 minutes

Ingredients:

• 3-4 medium-sized carrots
• 2-3 medium-sized oranges (you can use common oranges or even the green-skinned oranges shown in the image if they are ripe and sweet inside)
• Optional: 1/4 – 1/2 inch piece of fresh ginger (for an extra zing and health benefits)
• Optional: A few ice cubes (for serving)

Equipment:

• Juicer (centrifugal or masticating)
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Vegetable peeler (optional, but recommended for carrots)
• Glass for serving

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Carrots:

   • Wash the carrots thoroughly under cold running water.
   • Using a vegetable peeler, peel the outer skin of the carrots. If your carrots are organic and you prefer to keep the skin (which contains nutrients), simply scrub them very well with a vegetable brush.
   • Trim off both ends of the carrots.
   • Cut the carrots into pieces that are small enough to fit easily into the feeding chute of your juicer.

2. Prepare the Oranges:

   • Wash the oranges thoroughly.
   • For most juicers, it’s best to peel the oranges completely. The white pith can add bitterness to the juice. Use a knife to carefully cut away the peel and white pith, exposing the orange flesh.
   • Cut the peeled oranges into quarters or halves, depending on the size of your juicer’s feeding chute.

3. Optional Ginger (if using):

   • Peel the ginger piece (a spoon works well to scrape off the skin).
   • Cut it into a size that will fit your juicer.

4. Juice the Ingredients:

   • Assemble your juicer according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
   • Turn on the juicer.
   • Carefully feed the carrot pieces into the juicer’s chute, pushing them down with the tamper.
   • Next, feed the orange pieces into the juicer.
   • If using, add the ginger piece.
   • Collect the fresh juice in a glass or pitcher.

5. Serve:

   • Stir the juice well to combine the flavors.
   • Taste and adjust if desired (though typically no sweetener is needed due to the natural sweetness of carrots and oranges).
   • Pour into a glass, add a few ice cubes if you prefer it chilled, and serve immediately.

Tips for the Best Juice:

• Use Fresh, Ripe Produce: The fresher and riper your carrots and oranges, the sweeter and more flavorful your juice will be.
• Adjust Ratios: Feel free to adjust the ratio of carrots to oranges based on your preference. More carrots will yield a sweeter, earthier juice, while more oranges will make it tangier.
• Drink Immediately: Freshly made juice is best consumed right away to maximize its nutrient content. If you need to store it, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for no more than 24 hours.
• Clean Your Juicer Promptly: Juice pulp can dry and become difficult to clean. Rinse and clean your juicer parts immediately after use.
• Experiment with Add-ins: You can also add a small piece of apple, a few mint leaves, or a pinch of turmeric for additional flavor and health benefits.