Natural Fruits & Drinks Pte Ltd is a Singapore-based company known for its fresh, preservative-free juices and fruit-based beverages. This recipe article brings their signature style into your kitchen, focusing on a vibrant mixed fruit juice that combines tropical fruits with a hint of citrus. It works because it uses only natural sweetness and a simple blending method, delivering a refreshing drink that captures the essence of the brand’s commitment to quality and freshness.
Ingredients
- 2 cups (300 g) fresh pineapple chunks
- 1 large ripe mango, peeled and cubed (about 1 cup / 175 g)
- 1 small seedless cucumber, chopped (about 1 cup / 120 g)
- 1 green apple, cored and chopped (about 1 cup / 150 g)
- 1/2 lime, juiced (about 1 tablespoon / 15 ml)
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) cold water, plus more as needed
- Ice cubes, for serving (optional)
- Fresh mint leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare all the fruit: peel and core the pineapple, peel and cube the mango, chop the cucumber (no need to peel if organic), and core and chop the apple. Place all the prepared fruit into a blender.
- Add the lime juice and cold water to the blender. Start blending on low speed, gradually increasing to high, until the mixture is completely smooth. If the blender struggles, add a little more water, one tablespoon at a time, until it blends easily.
- Taste the juice and adjust: if you prefer a thinner consistency, add more water; if you like it sweeter, add a few drops of honey or a small ripe banana (though the natural fruit sugars are usually enough).
- Place a fine-mesh strainer over a large pitcher or bowl. Pour the blended juice through the strainer, using a spatula to press the pulp and extract as much liquid as possible. This step gives the juice a smooth, pulp-free texture typical of commercial fresh juices.
- Discard the pulp (or save it for smoothies or baking). Transfer the juice to a serving pitcher, add ice cubes if desired, and stir well.
- Pour into glasses and garnish with a mint leaf each. Serve immediately for the freshest flavor.
Tips
- Ripeness matters: Use fully ripe mango and pineapple for maximum sweetness. Under-ripe fruit will make the juice tart and less enjoyable.
- Substitute fruits: You can replace the cucumber with celery for an earthier note, or swap the green apple for a pear. Each substitution changes the flavor profile slightly but keeps the juice refreshing.
- Chill everything: For the best taste, use cold fruit and cold water. This eliminates the need for ice, which can dilute the juice.
- Don’t over-blend: Over-blending can introduce too much air, making the juice foamy. Blend just until smooth, then strain immediately.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this juice chilled over ice in tall glasses. It pairs beautifully with a light breakfast of toast and eggs, or as a mid-afternoon pick-me-up. For a brunch party, pour into small glasses and garnish with a thin slice of lime or a strawberry. You can also freeze the juice into ice cubes and use them to chill other drinks without diluting them.
Variations
- Green Boost: Add a handful of fresh spinach or kale (about 1 cup / 30 g) to the blender. The fruit flavors mask the greens, and you get extra nutrients.
- Citrus Zing: Replace the lime juice with 1/2 lemon and add 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated ginger for a spicy kick.
- Tropical Cream: Blend in 1/2 cup (120 ml) coconut milk for a creamier, richer texture. This turns the juice into a smoothie-like drink.
- Sparkling Version: After straining, mix the juice with equal parts sparkling water or club soda for a fizzy, alcohol-free spritzer.
Storage and Reheating
This juice is best consumed immediately, but you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The flavor will fade and the color may darken slightly due to oxidation. Shake well before serving. Do not freeze the juice, as it will separate and become watery upon thawing. There is no reheating involved; serve cold.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen fruit? Yes, frozen pineapple and mango work well. Thaw them slightly before blending, and reduce the amount of water to 1/4 cup (60 ml) since frozen fruit releases liquid as it blends. The juice will be thicker and icier, which is fine.
How do I make this juice sweeter without adding sugar? The easiest way is to use a very ripe banana or a couple of dates. Blend them in with the other fruit. Alternatively, use a sweeter apple variety like Fuji or Gala, or add a little honey or maple syrup to taste.
Is it necessary to strain the juice? No, it’s a texture preference. If you like a thicker, fiber-rich juice, skip the straining step. The pulp adds body and extra fiber. If you prefer a smooth, commercial-style juice, then straining is essential.
Can I make this juice in a juicer instead of a blender? Absolutely. If using a juicer, feed the pineapple, mango, cucumber, and apple through the chute. Then stir in the lime juice and water. This method yields a pulp-free juice directly, and you don’t need to strain.
How long does this juice stay fresh? Fresh juice is best within 24 hours. After that, it may ferment slightly and lose its vibrant taste. Always keep it refrigerated and consume within two days maximum, but for safety and quality, aim for the first day.
Can I add protein powder or yogurt? Yes, adding a scoop of unflavored or vanilla protein powder or 1/2 cup (120 g) of plain yogurt will turn this into a more filling smoothie. Blend them in after the fruit is smooth. This is a great post-workout drink.
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