Here is a step-by-step guide on how to prepare sour cherry juice at home.
Step 1 – Gather the Ingredients
To make sour cherry juice, you will need fresh or frozen sour cherries, water, sugar, and lemon juice. You can also add other ingredients to customize the taste of your juice, such as honey, ginger, or mint.
Step 2 – Wash and Prepare the Cherries
Before using the cherries for juice, wash them thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or debris. Remove the stems and pits from the cherries using a cherry pitter or a small knife.
Step 3 – Boil the Cherries
Place the pitted cherries in a large pot and add enough water to cover them. Bring the water to a boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cherries are soft. You may need to add more water to prevent the cherries from sticking to the pot.
Step 4 – Strain the Juice
Once the cherries are cooked, use a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth to strain the juice from the pulp. You can use a wooden spoon to press the pulp and extract as much juice as possible.
Step 5 – Add Sugar and Lemon Juice
The sourness of the cherry juice can be balanced by adding sugar to taste. Start with a tablespoon of sugar and increase as needed. Also, add one or two tablespoons of lemon juice to give the juice a refreshing tangy flavor.
Step 6 – Chill and Store
Once you have added the sugar and lemon juice, stir well, and let the juice cool to room temperature. Then, pour the juice into a jug or bottle and refrigerate for at least an hour. You can store the juice in the fridge for up to a week.
Additional Tips
• If you prefer a thicker juice, you can mash the cherries with a potato masher or a blender before straining them.
• To make the juice sweeter, you can add honey instead of sugar.
• To add a spicy kick to the juice, you can grate ginger and add it to the pot while boiling the cherries.
• To give the juice a natural color, you can add a few drops of beetroot juice or cranberry juice.
Conclusion
Sour cherry juice is a healthy and tasty drink that can be easily prepared at home. By following these simple steps, you can make a delicious and refreshing juice that is perfect for hot summer days or as a healthy drink option year-round. So, go ahead and try making your sour cherry juice today, and enjoy a sip of goodness!