Ingredients for Cherry Juice
To prepare this nutrient-packed beverage, you will need:
- Fresh or frozen cherries (2 cups): Sweet or tart cherries work well.
- Water (1 cup): Adjust based on your preferred consistency.
- Honey or sugar (optional, 1-2 tablespoons): For added sweetness.
- Lemon juice (1 teaspoon): Enhances the flavour and adds freshness.
- Ice cubes (optional): For a chilled experience.
Step-by-Step Recipe
- Prepare the cherries: Wash the cherries thoroughly, remove the stems, and pit them. If using frozen cherries, allow them to thaw slightly.
- Blend the ingredients: Add the cherries, water, honey (if using), and lemon juice to a blender.
- Blend until smooth: Blend until the mixture reaches a smooth consistency. Add more water if needed.
- Strain (optional): Use a fine mesh strainer to remove any pulp for a smoother texture, or skip this step for a fiber-rich drink.
- Serve: Pour the juice into a glass over ice cubes and enjoy immediately.
Nutritional Information of Cherry Juice
Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (1 cup):
- Calories: 100-120 (varies with sweetener added)
- Carbohydrates: 20-25 grams
- Fiber: 2-3 grams
- Sugar: 18-20 grams (natural fruit sugars)
- Protein: 1-2 grams
- Vitamin C: Covers 15-20% of the recommended daily intake (RDI)
- Potassium: Around 300-350 mg
- Melatonin: Trace amounts that support sleep health
Tips for Customizing Your Cherry Juice
- Add other fruits: Combine with apples, strawberries, or oranges for a unique flavour.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or vanilla for extra depth.
- Experiment with herbs: Fresh mint or basil leaves can complement the taste.
- Make it sparkling: Add sparkling water for a fizzy twist.
Try this recipe today and savour the benefits of fresh cherries!
