Introduction
Did you know that drinking just one glass of fresh-squeezed orange juice a day can provide you with nearly 100% of your daily vitamin C requirement? It is not only refreshing—it’s a tremendous immune booster but it also tastes delicious! Although many people drink a glass of orange juice as part of their morning ritual, there is a massive difference between the store-bought kind and the homemade, freshly squeezed kind.
In this article we are going to look at the reasons freshly squeezed orange juice is have to have in your kitchen, its health benefits and how you can easily prepare it at home. We’ll cover the dietary advantages, how to squeeze your own juice, why it’s better than store-bought versions and how it compares. So have an orange at the ready and let’s learn all about fresh-squeezed orange juice!
What is Fresh Squeezed Orange Juice?
Fresh-squeezed orange juice refers to orange juice that has been pressed directly from a fresh orange using a manual or electric jupr. Fresh-squeezed orange juice is a pure, natural beverage, unlike the store-bought versions that are often pasteurized and sometimes have added sugars or preservatives. Juicing the fruit at home keeps all of its vitamins, minerals and antioxidants intact.
Why Should We Choose Fresh-Squeezed Over Store-Bought Juice?
Though commercial orange juice is convenient, it can be loaded with added sugars, preservatives, even artificial flavorings. Fresh-squeezed orange juice, however, contains none of these preservatives. It’s as close to nature as it comes! That taste is often richer, more vibrant and a whole lot more refreshing than what you would find in a carton.
The Advantages Of Fresh Squeezed Orange Juice
Why should we drink fresh-squeezed orange juice instead of all those processed kinds? Below are some of the key highlights of benefits:
1. Packed with Nutrients
Orange juice is packed with vital vitamins and minerals. Most importantly, it’s full of vitamin C, an antioxidant that is critical for our immune system. Just one glass of fresh squeezed juice alone may contain as much as 100% of our daily requirements of vitamin C. And it’s high in folate, potassium and magnesium — vital nutrients for overall wellbeing.
2. High in Antioxidants
Oranges are loaded with antioxidants, particularly flavonoids such as hesperidin that may help lower inflammation, reduce blood pressure, and improve heart health. Store-bought juices are often pasteurized, which can strip away these antioxidants.
3. Boosts Immunity
Vitamin C has a reputation for supporting immune function. Drinking fresh-squeezed orange juice on a regular basis helps our body build up defenses against colds, flu and other diseases.
4. Promotes Healthy Skin
The vitamin C contained in orange juice is essential for collagen production, which keeps skin taut, youthful, and glowy. Fresh-press juice is a great natural skin health aid.
5. Hydrates the Body
It is also hydrating that orange juice is delicious! Fresh orange juice is full of water content, making it an excellent way to reinstate fluids lost after a workout or throughout the day.
How to Make Fresh-Squeezed Orange Juice at Home
Making fresh-squeezed orange juice at home is easier than you might think. All you need are a few simple tools and a batch of ripe, juicy oranges.
Tools You’ll Need:
- Fresh Oranges: Oranges are the base of orange juice. Make sure to add ripe and juicy oranges. Valencia oranges are classic for juicing, but navel oranges do the job, too.
- Manual or Electric Juicer: You can use a manual citrus press or an electric juicer, depending on your preference.
- Strainer (Optional): Use a strainer if you want to spill out any remaining pulp from your juice.
- Juice Container: Grab a glass or jug to capture your freshly pressed juice.
Steps for Squeezing Orange Juice:
1. Prepare the Oranges:
Wash the oranges well to remove dirt or pesticides. To make the oranges easier to squeeze, cut them in half at their equators.
2. Juicing the Oranges:
If this is a manual juicer, place each half on top and push down firmly to extract the juice. If you’re using a manual press, be sure to turn the orange as you squeeze to get the most juice out of it.
3. Strain the Juice (Optional):
If you want a smooth juice without pulp, strain the juice through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth.
4. Serve Immediately:
If you want to reap the most nutritional benefits, then enjoy fresh orange juice immediately. That’s all there is to it, pour it into a glass and enjoy!
Fresh-Squeezed Orange Juice Nutritional Breakdown
Let’s break down the nutrients and vitamins found in fresh-squeezed orange juice vs. that of store-bought orange juice. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll receive from a normal 8-ounce (240 mL) glass of fresh-squeezed orange juice:
Nutrient Fresh Squeezed (8oz) Orange Juice Industrial Orange Juice (8oz)
| Calories | 110 kcal | 110 kcal |
| Vitamin C | 124 mg (over 100% daily value) | 60 mg (often lower with pasteurization) |
| Potassium | 450 mg | 450 mg |
| Folate | 25 mcg | 25 mcg |
| Sugar | 21 g (natural sugars) | 21 g (might be added sugars) |
| Protein | 2 g | 2 g |
| Calcium | 30 mg | 30 mg |
As noted, the nutrient content of fresh-squeezed orange juice is similar to store-bought orange juice with regard to calories, sugar and potassium. The big difference is in vitamin C, as fresh juice can pack it in like none other when it comes to an immunity-supporting nutrient.
Fresh-Squeezed Orange Juice vs. Store-Bought Orange Juice: A Comparison
While we’ve already covered some of the contrast between fresh-squeezed orange juice and store-bought, let’s get even more detailed. Here’s how fresh-squeezed orange juice is the better option:
1. Taste
Fresh-squeezed orange juice tastes bright and tangy, and is far more complex than those sold in supermarkets. Made from freshly juiced oranges, it contains all the flavors and aromas that many pasteurized juices lose.
2. Nutritional Quality
Fresh-squeezed juice, as we mentioned above, has a greater level of vitamin C, antioxidants, and other nutrients. Storebought juice goes through a pasteurization process that can eliminate some of these good compounds, making fresh juice the healthiest option.
3. Contains No Added Sugar or Preservatives
Many commercial juices contain added sugars, which can lead to unnecessary calories, and diminish the health benefits of the juice. Fresh-squeezed juice, on the other hand, has just the sugars that are naturally present in fruit, making it overall a healthier option.
4. Customization
When you do it yourself, you get to set the flavour and pulp factor. If you prefer pulp-free juice, you can strain it, and if you like extra pulp, you can leave it in.
5. Cost-Effective
Although the up-front expense of fresh oranges may exceed the price of a carton of juice, fresh-squeezed juice tends to be cheaper over time. One orange can produce 4 ounces or more of juice, so you’ll need fewer oranges to fill a glass.
Creative Ways to Use Fresh-Squeezed Orange Juice
Fresh-squeezed orange juice is versatile and can be used in various ways beyond just sipping it straight from the glass. Here are a few creative ideas:
1. Orange Smoothies
Use fresh-squeezed orange juice for smoothies to give it a refreshing ish citrusy kick. Add fruits like bananas, berries, or mangoes for a nutrient-rich meal before noon.
2. Citrus Salad Dressings
In a tangy salad dressing that goes beautifully on green salads or roasted vegetables, mix orange juice with olive oil, honey, mustard and seasonings.
3. Orange Marinades
Use fresh-squeezed orange juice as the base for marinades for meats, tofu or vegetables. The acidity works to break down the proteins, and the citrus notes keep the food tasting fresh.
4. Cocktails and Mocktails
Cocktails like mimosas or tequila sunrises use fresh orange juice as a featured ingredient. It also works great in mocktails for a refreshing alcohol-free drink.
5. Baking
Bake with fresh orange juice, whether between the layers of a decadent cake, in scrumptious muffins or in a glaze. It gives your dessert a natural sweetness and a bright citrus flavor.
Key Takeaways
- Fresh-squeezed orange juice is a nutrient-dense, natural drink that is a great source of vitamin C and antioxidants.
- Fresh-squeezed orange juice is the healthier option: Unlike the store-bought versions, it has no added sugars or preservatives.
- It’s easy and cost-effective to make fresh-squeezed orange juice at home. You just need a juicer and some fresh, ripe oranges.
- Fresh orange juice is a versatile ingredient that can be incorporated into a number of recipes, from smoothies and salads to marinades and baked goods.
- Fresh-squeezed orange juice is best enjoyed (and its maximum nutritional benefits obtained) straight away.
FAQ
1. How long does fresh squeezed orange juice last?
Fresh-squeezed orange juice should be drunk within 24 hours, because nutrients and flavor fade over time. If you have to store it, then keep it sealed in the refrigerate for 2–3 days.
2. Can I make orange juice without a juicer?
Yes! If you are unable to squeeze oranges yourself, a citrus press will also come in handy to get the juice. A juicer speeds up the process a little, but it’s not necessary.
3. What are orange juice health benefits?
Fresh-squeezed orange juice is rich in vitamin C, antioxidants and potassium, which can help support a healthy immune system, skin and heart.
4. Can we freeze fresh-squeezed orange juice?
Yes, fresh-squeezed orange juice can be frozen in ice cube trays or containers. It will survive up to 3 months, but be sure to leave room for growth.
5. Does fresh-squeezed orange juice contain more sugar than juice from the supermarket?
No, freshly squeezed orange juice has only the natural sugar found in the fruit while store-bought juices may have added sugars.
6. Is fresh-squeezed orange juice good for weight loss?
Fresh-squeezed orange juice, on the other hand, is low in calories but filled to the brim with nutrients, so it can complement a well-balanced diet for weight loss. Just be careful with the portion sizes and don’t add too much sugar.
Conclusion
Fresh-squeezed orange juice goes beyond an enjoyable drink — it’s a nutrient-dense beverage that provides health benefits and enhances your meals. With its natural sweetness, refreshing flavor and health properties, it’s a simple thing to add to your day. By preparing it at home, you can make sure you’re getting all the nutrients, minus the added sugars or preservatives found in many store-bought versions. So, the next time you are in need of something fresh and revitalizing, forget the carton and take some oranges to squeeze!
