Orange juice freshly squeezed is a tasty beverage that is easy to make at home with a little practice. Unlike store-bought juices, freshly squeezed orange juice is low in sugar and contains no artificial preservatives. The juice is also full of vitamin C, dietary fiber, and potassium.
The juice can be made without an electric juicer (though a citrus press or handheld juicer will speed up the process significantly) and with only a few simple ingredients. If you are preparing large quantities of juice for mimosas, barbecues, or brunches it may be worth investing in specialized juice equipment like an electric Sunkist commercial juicer (affiliate link).
A glass of orange juice provides a significant amount of energy and is packed with vitamins and minerals. It is especially rich in vitamin C, which helps the body absorb iron from plant foods. It is also high in dietary fiber, which can help reduce cholesterol and lower blood pressure. The juice is also a good source of antioxidants, which can protect against cell damage and reduce the risk of cancer.
While there are a number of healthy brands of packaged orange juice, fresh squeezed is by far the best option. This juice is typically lower in sugar and has more dietary fiber than the store-bought variety. It is also a good source of vitamin A, which can promote eye health and support healthy skin. It is also high in vitamin C, which can help boost the immune system and fight infection.
A cup of fresh squeezed juice can be enjoyed on its own or used as a base for other drinks, including smoothies and lemonades. It can also be added to salad dressings for extra flavor and nutrition. Orange juice is also a delicious addition to breakfast and can be served with pancakes, waffles, or eggs. It can even be mixed with a savory dish such as this chickpea scramble or vegan frittata.
The juice industry really started to take off at the end of World War II, as the U.S. government urged scientists to find ways to get vitamin C to troops overseas. They developed processes to concentrate the juice and freeze it into a convenient package that could be shipped safely in the mail. The industry has since grown into a multibillion-dollar business.
When you buy fresh-squeezed orange juice, be sure to check the label to ensure there are no added sweeteners or chemical flavor additives. Most brands of commercially produced orange juice contain at least a few of these additives, which manufacturers don’t have to list on the label because they are “derived from oranges.” Juice from oranges that have been squeezed right before you drink it will be devoid of these artificial flavors and will taste much better. The flavor of fresh-squeezed orange juice can last for about two days in the fridge when stored properly. It can also be frozen in ice cube trays and kept for up to 2 months. orangensaft rezept