Juicing is an incredible way to flood your body with essential nutrients, but you can’t just throw whole fruits and vegetables into your juicer and expect tasty results. Properly preparing your produce is key, and it also makes the process smoother and more efficient. Here are some essential tips to get the most out of your juicing experience.

Chop Your Produce

Many juicers have small food chutes, so you’ll need to chop your fruits and vegetables into sizes that fit. The actual juicing process is incredibly fast, with foods zipping through the machine in seconds. By chopping and preparing your produce in advance, you’ll save a lot of time when you’re ready to juice.

Always Wash Your Produce

It’s crucial to wash your ingredients well before juicing. Washing your produce with bicarbonate of soda (baking soda) or a vegetable wash is highly effective. Research shows that a baking soda wash is one of the best methods for removing pesticides from the surface of fruits and vegetables, and it’s also very economical. However, keep in mind that this won’t remove pesticides that have penetrated the skin, which is why buying organic is ideal, although not always possible.

To Peel or Not to Peel?

In many cases, leaving the skin on your produce is just fine. For example, pineapple skin can go through most decent juicers without a problem. However, there are exceptions:

  • Kiwis: The fuzzy skin can create an unpleasant, gritty texture.
  • Waxed Produce: If your produce has been waxed, always peel it to avoid the wax affecting the flavour and safety of your juice.
  • Citrus Fruits: If you prefer the pure taste of the juice without the bitter oils from the skin or pith, it’s best to peel them. Juicing the whole citrus fruit is fine, but it will change the flavour profile.
  • Taste Concerns: If you’re worried the skin might impact the flavour, such as with melon rinds, do a taste test first.
  • Aesthetic Considerations: If you’re mindful of how your juice looks, peeling can be helpful. For instance, cucumber skin can make a cucumber-watermelon juice less visually appealing.

By following these preparation tips, you’ll ensure your juices are both delicious and nutritious. Remember, a little extra effort before juicing can make all the difference in the final flavour and quality of your juice. Happy juicing!

Want to Learn More About Juicing?

For over 20 years, I’ve been a passionate advocate for juicing, earning the nickname “The Queen of Juicing” among my friends. If you’re curious about how juicing can transform your health – think clearer skin, better energy, improved digestion, and mental clarity – I’d love to share my knowledge. Just head over to my Juicing page, you’ll find everything you need to get started: the benefits of juicing, equipment recommendations, and a library of nutrient-packed recipes. Plus you can read more about my Juicing Plans where I give you all the tools you need from step-by-step guidance to daily encouragement and mouth-watering recipes!

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