- Peel and roughly chop the carrot, oranges, and ginger (if using).
- Add all ingredients, including orange juice, cold water, and sugar, into a blender.
- Blend on high speed until smooth and well-combined.
- Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve for a smoother texture, or serve as is for added fiber.
- Pour into glasses and serve immediately for a refreshing drink.
- Calories:120 kcal25%
- Energy:502 kJ22%
- Protein:2 g28%
- Carbohydrates:28 mg40%
- Sugar:20 mg8%
- Salt:35 g25%
- Fat:0.3 g20%
Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh
Carrot Orange Juice Recipe – Refreshing Ginger Blend for Health
Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for a quick, healthy, and seriously delicious drink. This carrot orange juice is exactly that! I first made this when I was trying to sneak more veggies into my breakfast routine, and honestly, it’s become a family favourite. It’s vibrant, naturally sweet, and gives you such a lovely energy boost. Let’s get blending!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This isn’t just another juice recipe. It’s a burst of sunshine in a glass! It’s incredibly easy to make – seriously, just a few minutes. Plus, it’s packed with Vitamin C, beta-carotene, and all sorts of goodness. It’s the perfect way to start your day, cool down on a hot afternoon, or just give yourself a little pick-me-up.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 large carrot
- 2 oranges
- 1 small piece of ginger (optional)
- 2 tbsp raw sugar (or to taste)
- 1 cup cold water
Ingredient Notes
Let’s talk ingredients! Getting these right makes all the difference.
Carrot Varieties for Sweetness
Did you know not all carrots are created equal? Red carrots are surprisingly sweet, but any variety will work. Just make sure they’re fresh and firm.
Orange Selection: Choosing Juicy Oranges
Look for oranges that feel heavy for their size – that means they’re full of juice! Nagpur oranges are fantastic if you can find them, but any sweet orange variety will do.
The Role of Ginger: Fresh vs. Dried
Fresh ginger adds a lovely zing, but a pinch of dried ginger powder works in a pinch (about ¼ tsp). I personally prefer fresh, though – the flavour is just brighter.
Sugar Alternatives: Honey, Maple Syrup, or Dates
Don’t like refined sugar? No problem! You can easily swap it for 1-2 tbsp of honey, maple syrup, or a couple of Medjool dates (pitted, of course!).
Water Quality & Temperature
Filtered water is always best for the purest flavour. And keeping the water cold helps keep the juice refreshing!
Step-By-Step Instructions
Alright, let’s make some juice!
First, peel and roughly chop the carrot, oranges, and ginger (if you’re using it). Don’t worry about being too precise – the blender will take care of the rest.
Next, add everything – the chopped veggies and fruit, sugar, and cold water – into your blender.
Now, blend on high speed until it’s completely smooth and well-combined. This usually takes about a minute or two, depending on your blender.
If you like a super smooth juice, strain the mixture through a sieve. But honestly, I often skip this step and enjoy the extra fibre!
Finally, pour into glasses and serve immediately. It’s best enjoyed fresh!
Expert Tips
Want to take your juice game to the next level? Here are a few of my favourite tricks:
Maximizing Juice Yield
Cut the oranges and carrots into smaller pieces before blending. This helps your blender work more efficiently.
Adjusting Sweetness to Your Preference
Taste as you go! Add more sugar (or your chosen sweetener) if needed. Remember, oranges vary in sweetness.
Blending Techniques for Smoothness
Start on a low speed and gradually increase to high. This prevents splashing and ensures everything gets blended evenly.
Preventing Oxidation & Maintaining Color
Carrot juice can oxidize and lose its vibrant colour over time. Adding a squeeze of lemon juice can help slow this down.
Ginger Preparation for Optimal Flavor
Peel the ginger with a spoon – it’s much easier than using a knife!
Variations
Let’s get creative!
Vegan Adaptation
Simply replace the sugar with maple syrup or dates.
Spice Level: Adding a Pinch of Turmeric or Cayenne
For a little extra kick and health benefits, add a tiny pinch of turmeric or cayenne pepper. My friend swears by this for a morning boost!
Festival Adaptations: Navratri/Summer Cooling Drink
This juice is perfect for Navratri fasting (if you skip the sugar or use a fasting-friendly sweetener) or as a cooling drink during the hot summer months.
For Kids: Reducing Ginger & Adjusting Sweetness
My little ones aren’t huge fans of ginger, so I usually leave it out for them. You might also want to add a little extra orange to make it sweeter.
Adding Other Fruits: Apple, Pineapple, or Beetroot
Feel free to experiment! A slice of apple, a chunk of pineapple, or even a small piece of beetroot can add a delicious twist.
Serving Suggestions
This juice is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with a light breakfast or as a refreshing afternoon snack. I love serving it with a side of toasted whole-wheat bread.
Storage Instructions
While it’s best enjoyed immediately, you can store leftover juice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The colour might change slightly, but it will still taste good.
FAQs
Got questions? I’ve got answers!
Can I make this juice ahead of time?
It’s best fresh, but you can make it up to 24 hours in advance. Keep it refrigerated in an airtight container.
What are the health benefits of carrot and orange juice?
Carrots are rich in beta-carotene (good for your eyes!), and oranges are packed with Vitamin C (boosts your immune system!). It’s a win-win!
Can I use orange juice concentrate instead of fresh oranges?
You can, but the flavour won’t be as vibrant. If you do use concentrate, reduce the amount of water slightly.
How can I make this juice more frothy?
Blend for a longer time on high speed, or add a few ice cubes.
What if I don’t have a blender – can I use a juicer?
Absolutely! A juicer will give you a very smooth juice, but you’ll lose out on the fibre.
Is the pulp nutritious? Should I discard it?
The pulp is full of fibre! You can add it to smoothies, muffins, or even compost it. Don’t throw it away!