Drinks
Passion Fruit Juice
Ingredients
- - 4 whole fruits (approx. 200 g / 7 oz pulp) fresh passion fruit pulp with seeds
- - 750 ml (3 cups) cold water
- - 60 g (1/4 cup) or 3 tbsp granulated sugar or condensed milk
- - 1 cup ice cubes
Method
- Cut the passion fruits in half and scoop the pulp and seeds into a blender.
- Add the water and sugar (or condensed milk for a creamier version) and blend on high for 20-30 seconds to release the juice from the seeds.
- Strain the mixture through a fine sieve into a pitcher, pressing firmly with the back of a spoon to extract as much juice as possible; discard the seeds.
- Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
- Serve over ice immediately.
Introduction: Passion fruit (maracuja) is native to South America and central to Brazilian juice culture, where fresh fruit juices (sucos) are a daily fixture at lunch counters and juice bars (lanchonetes) across the country.
Cultural Background: Passion fruit (maracuja) is native to South America and central to Brazilian juice culture, where fresh fruit juices (sucos) are a daily fixture at lunch counters and juice bars (lanchonetes) across the country.
Tips: Blend just long enough to separate the pulp from the seeds; over-blending can crack the seeds and add bitterness. Press firmly but do not force whole seeds through the sieve, which can make the juice gritty.
Variations: Creamy version: use condensed milk instead of sugar for a richer, dessert-like juice. Sparkling version: top with sparkling water instead of blending with still water. Vegetarian: Yes. Vegan when made with sugar instead of condensed milk.
Storage: Refrigerate in a sealed pitcher for up to 2 days; stir well before serving as it may separate.
Reheating: Not applicable; served cold.
Nutrition: Per serving: approx. 90 kcal, 1 g protein, 0 g fat, 22 g carbohydrate, 1 g fibre.
FAQs:
Q: Can I use frozen passion fruit pulp?
A: Yes, frozen pulp (often sold seedless) works well and is a convenient substitute for fresh fruit.
Q: Why is my juice bitter?
A: Over-blending the seeds for too long can release bitter compounds; blend for no more than 30 seconds.