| Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 0 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 60 | 0.2g | 0g | 15g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 12g | 3g | 1g | 0.01g |
When I first stumbled upon the recipe for African Cherry Orange Juice, I was immediately intrigued by its unique blend of flavors. Growing up in the heartland of Nebraska, I was no stranger to delicious, fresh fruit juices, but this particular combination stood out to me. The African cherry orange, also known as Agbalumo or Udara, brings a distinctively tart and sweet flavor that is a refreshing departure from the usual citrus options you might find at a Midwestern farmer’s market.
Bringing Farm-to-Table Freshness to Your Home
One of the reasons I love this recipe so much is because it aligns perfectly with my passion for farm-to-table freshness. Living in Nebraska, we are spoiled with an abundance of fresh produce, and this drink captures that essence remarkably well. The fresh ingredients—notably the African cherry oranges and pineapple chunks—deliver a burst of natural sweetness, enhanced subtly by the honey. This is a beverage that is both delightful and nutritious, perfect for quenching your thirst on a warm summer day or serving as a unique addition to a family brunch.
Health Benefits and Nutritional Value
The health benefits of African Cherry Orange Juice cannot be overstated. African cherry oranges are packed with vitamins and antioxidants that are excellent for boosting your immune system. They contain significant amounts of Vitamin C, which is known for its ability to help combat illness and keep your skin glowing. Additionally, adding pineapple chunks introduces bromelain to the mix, an enzyme known for its anti-inflammatory properties and digestive health benefits. If you’re looking to cut down on refined sugars, the optional honey is a fantastic natural sweetener that also brings its own array of health perks.
Similar to classic orange juice but with a vibrant twist, this refreshing drink brings a touch of exotic flair into any meal. It pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes, from a hearty breakfast spread to a light afternoon snack. For those interested in trying different variations, you might enjoy this juice alongside a fresh fruit salad or as a complement to savory dishes like grilled chicken or fish. It’s a versatile addition that can elevate both everyday meals and special occasions alike.
Whether you’re an avid juicer or someone looking for a simple, healthy beverage to add to your repertoire, African Cherry Orange Juice is a delightful option that captures the essence of natural, wholesome ingredients. So, gather your African cherry oranges, a few pineapples, and get ready to enjoy a refreshing, nutritious drink that your whole family will love.
What You’ll Need
- 6 African cherry oranges (Agbalumo/Udara)
- 4 cups of water
- 2 tablespoons of honey (optional)
- 1 cup of pineapple chunks (optional for added flavor)
- Ice cubes (as needed)
Method
Step One
Wash the African cherry oranges thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or impurities.
Step Two
Peel the African cherry oranges and remove the seeds. Cut them into small pieces to make blending easier.
Step Three
Place the orange pieces into a blender. Add the 4 cups of water to the blender with the oranges.
Step Four
Blend the mixture until smooth. This may take a few minutes to ensure all the orange pieces are finely blended.
Step Five
(Optional) Add 1 cup of pineapple chunks to the blender for added flavor and blend again until smooth.
Step Six
(Optional) Stir in 2 tablespoons of honey to the blended juice for sweetness.
Step Seven
Strain the blended mixture using a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the pulp, resulting in a smoother juice.
Step Eight
Pour the strained juice into a jug or serving glasses. Add ice cubes as needed to chill the juice.
Step Nine
Serve immediately and enjoy your refreshing African Cherry Orange Juice!
