Orange juice freshly squeezed is a refreshing beverage that has many benefits for the body. It contains vitamin C, which is great for our immune system, as well as soluble fiber that helps us maintain a healthy digestive system and lowers cholesterol levels. It is also rich in potassium, which reduces the risk of heart disease and strokes by lowering blood pressure and helping regulate our metabolism. Finally, it is a good source of B vitamins, including folate and Vitamin A, which are crucial for our energy levels and overall health.
Freshly squeezed orange juice is best enjoyed immediately after making, or within three days in the fridge. If you want to store it longer, freeze the leftover orange juice in ice cube trays for up to three months. Homemade orange juice can be made with a blender or juicer, or you can squeeze the oranges by hand. If you use a blender, you will need to peel the oranges beforehand, and make sure there are no seeds or white strings in the mixture. If you are squeezing the oranges by hand, try rolling them on a hard surface like your countertop or table to loosen up the rind and release more of the juice.
Once the oranges have been washed and peeled, the process of juicing them is relatively easy. A blender with a jug attachment can be used, or you can invest in a hand-held citrus juicer or citrus reamer (affiliate link) to make the job much easier. Some people find that they get a better result using their hands than with an electric juicer, because it allows them to feel more connected to the juicing process.
One important thing to note about juice that is labeled “freshly squeezed” is that the FDA has protected this term, meaning that any kind of processing (pasteurization or HPP) will prevent a product from being able to legally be called “freshly squeezed.” This is because the more a product is processed, the closer it gets to its expiration date.
When you buy a bottle of commercially prepared orange juice, it is often pasteurized or HPP’ed to extend its shelf life. This process not only eliminates bacteria, but it also strips the juice of its oxygen. This depletes the flavor of the orange juice, so the manufacturers add in “flavor packs” that are nothing more than fragrance and oil that do not resemble anything found naturally in an orange. For this reason, only a truly “freshly squeezed” orange juice will taste authentic and delicious. pizza calzone