Golden Apple Juice
Golden Apple Juice, also known as June Plum Juice, is a popular refreshing drink in Saint Lucia. The golden apple, or June plum, has a tangy-sweet flavor with a hint of citrus and is rich in vitamins and minerals. This juice is perfect for cooling down on a hot day, and it’s often enjoyed fresh, providing a taste of tropical goodness in every sip.
There was one house in the north of Saint Lucia we lived in which had a huge golden apple tree. We had never tried the juice so didn’t truly appreciate the jewel we had in the garden. Once we sampled a local juice, we were climbing the tree with gusto to pick the apples!
What Are St Lucia Golden Apples?
Saint Lucia golden apples, also known as June plums or ambarella, are tropical fruits commonly found in Saint Lucia and other Caribbean islands. They are known locally as “pomme cythère” and are beloved for their tangy-sweet taste and refreshing qualities. The fruit has a unique flavor profile, combining the tartness of a green apple with a hint of pineapple or mango.
Characteristics of Saint Lucia Golden Apples
- Appearance: Golden apples are oval-shaped and start off green when young, turning golden yellow as they ripen. They have a thin, smooth skin and firm, fibrous flesh.
- Size: The fruit typically measures 5-10 cm in length and can be slightly larger or smaller depending on growing conditions.
- Texture: The flesh is crisp and slightly crunchy, with a juicy interior. The core contains a spiky seed, which can make it tricky to eat directly.
- Flavor: When unripe, the fruit is tart and acidic, but as it ripens, it becomes sweeter while retaining a slight tang.
Health Benefits of Golden Apple
Golden apples, also known as June plums or ambarella, offer several health benefits due to their rich nutritional profile. Here are some of the key health benefits:
1. Rich in Vitamin C
- Golden apples are an excellent source of vitamin C, which boosts the immune system, helps the body fight off infections, and promotes healthy skin by supporting collagen production. Vitamin C also acts as a powerful antioxidant, protecting cells from damage by free radicals.
2. High in Fiber
- The dietary fiber in golden apples aids digestion and supports gut health by promoting regular bowel movements and preventing constipation. Fiber also helps maintain a feeling of fullness, which can be beneficial for weight management.
3. Supports Bone Health
- Golden apples contain calcium, which is essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth. Regular consumption can contribute to bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
4. Aids in Blood Sugar Regulation
- The fiber in golden apples helps regulate blood sugar levels by slowing down the absorption of sugar in the bloodstream. This makes them a good choice for people managing blood sugar levels or dealing with diabetes.
5. Promotes Heart Health
- With a low calorie and fat content, golden apples are heart-friendly. The potassium found in the fruit helps regulate blood pressure, while the fiber can help reduce cholesterol levels.
6. Hydrating and Refreshing
- Golden apples have a high water content, making them hydrating and refreshing, especially in tropical climates. Staying hydrated is essential for maintaining energy levels and supporting various bodily functions.
7. Anti-Inflammatory Properties
- The fruit contains various plant compounds with anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation and provide relief from conditions like arthritis.
8. Supports Eye Health
- The presence of vitamin A in golden apples can contribute to eye health by supporting good vision and reducing the risk of age-related macular degeneration.
Golden Apple Juice Ingredients
Apples, sugar and water are all you need to make refreshing golden apple juice.
- Golden Apples – These fruits have a firm flesh and tart-sweet taste.
- Sugar – For added sweetness, especially if the golden apples are more tart than sweet.
- Cold Water – Used to dilute the juice and create the desired consistency.
Variations
Enjoy the golden apple juice as it is or have a play with the flavors with these other variations:
- Freshly Grated Ginger – Adds a bit of spice and enhances the tropical flavor.
- Lime Juice – Adds a touch of acidity to balance the sweetness and enhance the fresh, fruity taste.
- Cinnamon – Heat the juice with a cinnamon stick and simmer for 10 minutes.
How to Make Golden Apple Juice
This is a quick recipe that can be made in minutes.
Wash and chop apples.
Place in blender jar and add water.
Blend until smooth.
Sieve to remove pulp.
Add the sugar.
Chill before serving.
Storage
Saint Lucia golden apple juice will keep fresh in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container. For the best flavor and nutritional benefits, it’s ideal to consume the juice within the first two days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the juice for up to 2-3 months in freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion.
Golden Apple Juice
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Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs golden apples
- 4 cups cold water
- 1/2 cup sugar
Instructions
- Wash the golden apples thoroughly, then peel and cut the flesh away from the seed. Cut the flesh into smaller pieces for easier blending.
- Place the golden apple pieces in a blender with the cold water. Blend until smooth.
- Pour the blended mixture through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove the pulp. Press the pulp to extract as much juice as possible.
- Taste the juice and add additional sugar if needed, stirring until dissolved.
- Pour the juice into a pitcher and refrigerate until cold. Serve over ice for an extra-refreshing drink.