Iron Boosting Fruit Punch

Iron Boosting Fruit Punch

This vibrant and delicious punch is packed with iron-rich ingredients and Vitamin C to aid in iron absorption.

Yields: Approximately 2-3 servings Prep time: 10-15 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 large lemon
• 6 oz (approx. 1 cup) fresh strawberries
• 2 medium oranges
• 2 medium beets
• 1/2 a small to medium pineapple

Equipment:

• Blender (high-speed recommended)
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups/spoons (optional, for precision)
• Strainer or nut milk bag (optional, for smoother consistency)
• Serving glasses

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beets: Wash the beets thoroughly. You can either peel them or leave the skin on for extra nutrients (ensure they are very clean if leaving skin on). Chop the beets into smaller pieces, about 1-inch cubes, to facilitate blending.
2. Prepare the Strawberries: Wash the strawberries and hull them (remove the green leafy tops). You can leave them whole or cut larger ones in half.
3. Prepare the Oranges: Wash the oranges. Peel them, ensuring to remove as much of the white pith as possible, as it can be bitter. Separate into segments.
4. Prepare the Lemon: Wash the lemon. You can either peel it and remove the seeds, or simply slice it in half and squeeze out the juice directly into the blender, being careful to catch any seeds. Including some of the white pith from the lemon (but not too much) can add extra nutrients, but too much can make it bitter. For a less bitter taste, just use the juice.
5. Prepare the Pineapple: Wash the pineapple. Carefully cut off the top and bottom. Stand the pineapple upright and slice off the skin. Then, cut the pineapple in half lengthwise. Remove the tough core from the half you are using. Chop the pineapple flesh into chunks.
6. Blend All Ingredients: Add all the prepared fruits and vegetables (beets, strawberries, oranges, lemon juice/pieces, and pineapple) into your blender.
7. Add Water (Optional, for consistency): Depending on your desired consistency and the power of your blender, you may need to add a small amount of water (1/4 to 1/2 cup) to help the blending process. Start with a smaller amount and add more if needed.
8. Blend Until Smooth: Blend on high speed until the mixture is completely smooth and no large chunks remain. This may take a few minutes.
9. Strain (Optional, for smoother punch): If you prefer a smoother punch without pulp, pour the blended mixture through a fine-mesh strainer or a nut milk bag into a large bowl or pitcher. Use a spoon or your hands (with the nut milk bag) to press out all the liquid. Discard the pulp.
10. Taste and Adjust: Taste the fruit punch. If it’s too thick, add a little more water. If it’s too tart, you can add a small amount of natural sweetener like honey, maple syrup, or a date (blend again if adding a solid sweetener).
11. Serve: Pour the Iron Boosting Fruit Punch into glasses. Garnish with a fresh strawberry or a lemon slice, if desired.
12. Enjoy!

Tips and Variations:

• For extra chill: Add a few ice cubes to the blender while blending, or serve over ice.
• Storage: Store any leftover punch in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. The color may change slightly over time, but it will still be good.
• Nutritional Boost: To further enhance iron absorption, consume this punch with a meal that contains other iron-rich foods.
• Ginger: A small piece of fresh ginger can be added for an extra zing and its anti-inflammatory properties.
• Mint: A few fresh mint leaves can add a refreshing touch.