Step 1: Gather the Ingredients
To make delicious cranberry juice, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups of fresh cranberries
- 4 cups of water
- Sweetener (optional, based on personal preference)
Step 2: Wash and Prepare the Cranberries
Start by washing the cranberries thoroughly under running water. Remove any stems or berries that appear spoiled or damaged. Once clean, set them aside for now.
Step 3: Cook the Cranberries
In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the washed cranberries and water. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Strain the Mixture
Using a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth, strain the cooked cranberries to separate the juice from the solids. Gently press the mixture to extract as much juice as possible, leaving behind the pulp. Discard the pulp or save it for other recipes.
Step 5: Sweeten (If Desired)
Taste the freshly strained cranberry juice and add sweetener to your liking. You can use sugar, honey, or any other sweetener of your choice. Stir well to ensure it dissolves completely.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Allow the cranberry juice to cool down to room temperature. Once cooled, pour it into a glass jar or bottle and refrigerate for at least an hour before serving. Serve the juice chilled and enjoy its refreshing taste!
Making your own cranberry juice at home is not only easy but also allows you to control the sweetness and avoid any artificial additives. Experiment with different sweeteners and ratios until you find your perfect blend. Cheers to a healthy and delicious homemade cranberry juice!