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Jugo de Naranjilla

The Quirky Foodster Team

(0)
10 min
Prep
0 min
Cook

Ingredients

  • 500g (1.1 lb) Naranjilla fruit, halved
  • 750ml (3 cups) Cold water
  • to taste 80-100g (1/3-1/2 cup) sugar
  • to serve Ice

Method

  1. Scoop the pulp and seeds from the naranjilla halves into a blender, discarding the tough outer skin.
  2. Add the cold water and blend on high speed for 1-2 minutes until fully broken down.
  3. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a jug, pressing to extract as much liquid as possible while leaving the seeds behind.
  4. Stir in sugar to taste until dissolved.
  5. Serve well chilled over ice.

Introduction: Jugo de naranjilla is a refreshing chilled juice made from the tart Andean naranjilla fruit, one of Ecuador's most distinctive native fruits.

Cultural Background: Jugo de naranjilla is a refreshing chilled juice made from the tart Andean naranjilla fruit, one of Ecuador's most distinctive native fruits. Served everywhere from home kitchens to juice bars, its bright, tangy flavour — somewhere between citrus and rhubarb — makes it a beloved daily refreshment.

Tips: Naranjilla seeds are edible in small amounts but are traditionally strained out for a smoother juice — press firmly on the strainer to extract maximum juice.

Variations: Some versions blend the juice with a little milk for a creamier drink called naranjilla con leche. Already vegan as written.

Storage: Refrigerate in a sealed jug for up to 2 days; the juice will separate slightly and should be stirred before serving.

Reheating: Not applicable — this is a cold beverage.

Nutrition: Approx. 90 kcal, 1g protein, 0g fat, 22g carbohydrates per serving.

FAQs:

Q: What does naranjilla taste like?

A: Naranjilla has a tart, tangy flavour often described as a cross between citrus fruit and rhubarb, with a slightly floral note.

Q: Can I find naranjilla outside Ecuador?

A: Fresh naranjilla is rare outside South America, but frozen pulp is often available in Latin American grocery stores.