With summer fast approaching, a cold drink in hand is definitely an advantage. It would soothe you from the harsh sunny days and if it is a fruit or vegetable juice that you are delving into, it is a healthier option as well. Carrot juice is one such amazing concoction that would not only do wonders to your skin and health, but also quench your thirst. The high nutrient and vitamin content in carrots are enough to keep you healthy at so many levels, making it one of the most versatile vegetables available. Preparing carrot juice is a very easy process if you have all the right ingredients and appliances. Follow these basic steps below to find out how to make a perfect glass of carrot juice.
Complexity level: Basic
Time required: 10 -15 minutes
Resources required:
1. Carrots
2. Knives
3. Chopping board
4. Peeler
5. Vegetable scrubber
6. Juicer/ blender
7. Water
8. Drinking glasses
9. Sugar, lemon etc. (optional)
Instructions:
1. Clean the carrots
Clean the carrots properly under water to get rid of any dirt and dust particles or soak them in a large bowl filled with water and a dash of soda bicarbonate. After a few minutes scrub them using a vegetable scrubber and keep aside.
2. Use the chopping board
Get the chopping board ready. Place the carrots on the board and chop off both the tough edges. At this stage, you can also peel them if you prefer it that way. If the carrots are extremely large, then it is better to slice them into smaller halves.
3. Use the juicer
Turn on the juicer and push the carrots through the tube at a steady rate. Also, remember to keep a bowl or container and the end to collect the juice. If you are using a blender instead, place the chopped carrots in the jar and blend till you get a pureed or mashed consistency. Add some water into the jar and mix well, just to bring it all together. Let it stand for a while and then strain it.
4. Pour the juice into serving glasses
Pour the carrot juice into serving glasses filled with ice and devour the goodness. You can add sugar or lemon juice to enhance the taste a bit, but drinking it without the addition of any other flavor makes it perfect.
Frequently asked questions:
1. Is using the juicer a better option?
Its is definitely an easier option compared to the blender as the whole process is over in a matter of seconds. The blender requires you to keep it aside for a while and then strain it, and if you are lucky you get a considerable amount of carrot juice.
2. What carrots are best for juicing?
Look out for carrots that are smaller in variety and about 6 inches long. These are more sweeter as well. Another thing to look out for is the color. The deeper the color the more goodness and nutrients the carrot contains.
Quick tips:
1. It is best if you leave carrots with too many cracks and blemishes aside. If they have tops, select the ones that are fresh and green and not yellow and wilted.
2. To soften the carrot a bit before blending, soak them in water for about 5 minutes before you thrust it down a juicer or blender.
3. Using organic carrots give best results. They are much healthier for consumption and peeling them is not required in such cases, thereby reducing preparation time.
4. Carrot juice is perfect on it own, but if you find it difficult, try adding some freshly squeezed orange juice or apple juice which would enhance the taste.
Things to watch out for:
- If you don’t plan to use the carrots immediately after purchasing it, place them in a refrigerator to prevent wilting and decay.
- Read the instruction manual of your juicer/ blender carefully to avoid mishaps
- Drink your carrot juice as soon as you have finished making it since many of the health nutrients don’t last long and tastes best when fresh
- If kept for a while, carrot juice tends to settle at the bottom. In that case, stir before serving.
