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Easy Peasy Juicing Tips for First Timers

Food | Lifestyle

Juicing is a practice I’ve always admired, but really never participated in for a long time. My husband and I bought a juicer a few years ago with good intentions of using it, and I'm embarrassed to say it sat in the cupboard for almost two years and with barely any use.

In an effort to thoroughly improve my lifestyle, the juicer has made its way back onto our countertop! It's been about three months now, and I've been using it pretty consistently, perhaps due to my newfound yogic lifestyle, or just my enhanced drive to be and stay healthy.

I'll be the first to admit, however, that it's tough to juice consistently. In the past few months, I've learned some tips and tricks to make juicing a weekly or even daily part of your life.

1. Invest in a quality juicer.

Without it, you will likely spend extra time frustrated over jammed-up food inside the machine, or cleaning hassles. Do some research and invest in a more expensive, quality juicer. This will save you the time and frustration that can often get in the way of preparing amazing juices.

I would recommend buying one of the Breville juicers on the market these days. They are hardy, strong, and reliable!

2. An apple a day keeps your juice okay.

One of the worst things that can happen is ending up with a kinda-gross tasting drink. This has happened to me a few times, and it’s heartbreaking to know I just used up precious and nutritious vegetables, only to dislike the final product!

Sometimes I’m able to salvage it by adding some sweetener or honey, but it's still a bit disappointing. Juicing is an art, and it takes practice and many trial-and-error experiences to get it right.

I've found that adding just one red delicious apple to most combinations of juiced foods can really be enough to sweeten it just right. It does take a little bit of taste-testing, depending on your personal preference.

3. Save leftover vegetable or fruit scraps.

I have an empty Tupperware container in my fridge for leftover fresh vegetable or fruit scraps. We often chop up vegetables or fruit for cooking meals, and instead of throwing away the scraps, I put them in my refrigerated "bucket" to juice later.

These food scraps usually include celery stems and leaves, broccoli or cauliflower stems, small pieces of sweet potatoes, carrot ends, cucumber ends, and more things of that type.

4. Season your juice!

You heard me correctly. Sometimes it's helps to add just a little bit of salt, ginger powder (if you're not already juicing actual ginger), turmeric, or cinnamon to give it some top-note flavors. Usually, those seasonings only make something taste better. Give it a try!

5. Make larger quantities of juice ahead of time.

Although my Breville is quite easy to clean (and it can also go in the dishwasher), I don't really like to use it every day. I usually collect enough fresh vegetables and fruit (including my "bucket" of scraps), enough to make a large pint.

The key to making juice last for a few days is storing it in mason jars or any sealed, air-tight containers in the fridge. This prevents it from oxidizing and keeps it tasting fresh for longer.

Now try these tips the next time you get the chance, and I guarantee you will have a great juicing experience!

Julie is a member of the DOYOU Community. The opinions and statements expressed in this article are those of the author, and do not necessarily reflect those of DOYOU and Skyrocket Media.

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