Nutrient-Rich Beet Carrot Juice

• Beets: The Earthy Powerhouse
  Beets form the vibrant, nutrient-dense base of this recipe. For optimal results and maximum enzymatic activity, it’s crucial to use raw, uncooked beets for juicing. There’s no need for elaborate cooking; simply give them a good scrub under running water to remove any dirt, then trim off the greens, and the top and bottom ends. The greens can often be juiced along with the roots for an extra nutrient boost! Beets are rich in nitrates, which the body converts to nitric oxide, supporting blood flow and athletic endurance. They also contain betalains, powerful antioxidants responsible for their deep red color, known for their anti-inflammatory and detoxifying properties. I also frequently use beets as a foundational ingredient in recipes like my popular Liver Cleanse Juice. Explore my other favorite beet juice recipes for juicers to discover more ways to enjoy this incredible root vegetable.
• Carrots: The Sweet & Mellow Balance
  Carrots play a vital role in this juice, expertly balancing the sometimes intense, earthy flavor of the beets while adding a delightful natural sweetness. Beyond their taste contribution, carrots are a nutritional powerhouse, famed for their beta-carotene content, a precursor to Vitamin A. This is crucial for vision health, skin radiance, and immune support. They also provide a good source of Vitamin K1, potassium, and antioxidants. Both beets and carrots are consistently featured on my list of the best vegetables to juice due to their exceptional nutrient density and flavor profiles. Choose firm, bright orange carrots for the best taste and nutrient levels.
• Apple: The Natural Sweetener & Flavor Enhancer
  An apple is the perfect addition to this juice, introducing a refreshing burst of natural sweetness that harmonizes beautifully with the root vegetables. It helps to mellow out the earthiness of the beets and brightens the overall flavor. You have flexibility with your apple choice; a tart Granny Smith green apple can add a crisp tang, while any variety of red apple will contribute a sweeter, milder note. Many affectionately refer to this combination as “ABC juice” – Apple, Beets, and Carrots – making the simple yet powerful formula incredibly easy to remember! If you’re looking for a more tropical twist, be sure to check out my delightful Mango Carrot Juice for another refreshing option.

Creating this nourishing beet carrot juice is a straightforward process, adaptable to your preferred kitchen appliance. I personally rely on my Omega cold-press juicer for all my juice concoctions, as it extracts maximum nutrients and flavor with minimal oxidation. However, if a juicer isn’t part of your kitchen arsenal, a powerful high-speed blender will achieve excellent results too! For a deeper dive into choosing the right equipment, explore my guide to the best juicer blenders available.

Step One: Prepare Your Produce with Precision

The foundation of any great juice begins with meticulous preparation. Begin by thoroughly washing and prepping your beets, carrots, and apple. For beets, scrub them vigorously with a vegetable brush under cold running water to remove any soil; you don’t need to peel them as much of the nutrition is in or just under the skin. Trim off the leafy tops and the small root end. For carrots, a good scrub is usually sufficient, though you can lightly peel them if desired. Wash your apple thoroughly. The size you cut your produce will depend on your equipment:

• For a Juicer: Cut beets, carrots, and apple into pieces small enough to fit comfortably through your juicer’s feeding chute. Larger, denser pieces are generally fine for most juicers.
• For a Blender: Chop all ingredients into smaller, manageable chunks (about 1-inch pieces) to ensure a smoother blend and prevent strain on your blender motor.

Refer to the comprehensive recipe card at the end of this post for the exact measurements of each ingredient to ensure a perfectly balanced juice.

Step Two: Juicing or Blending Your Way to Freshness

Now, let’s turn your prepared ingredients into a vibrant, delicious juice:

• Using a Juicer: Gradually feed the prepped beets, carrots, and apple pieces through the feeding tube of your juicer. Allow the juicer to work its magic, extracting the liquid gold into your collection pitcher. You’ll observe a clear separation of juice and pulp, which will be expelled into a separate container.
• Using a Blender: For a blender-made beet carrot juice, place all the chopped ingredients (beets, carrots, and apple) into the pitcher of your high-speed blender. Add approximately 1/4 cup of filtered water to aid in the blending process. This initial liquid helps create a vortex, ensuring all ingredients are evenly processed into a smooth consistency.

If you’re using a blender, blend the ingredients on high speed until the mixture is completely smooth and appears consistent in texture. This usually takes about 30-60 seconds, depending on your blender’s power.

If using a blender, blend the ingredients until smooth.

Step Three: Strain for a Silky Smooth Finish (Blender Method)

This step is primarily for those using a blender, as juicers naturally separate pulp. To achieve that smooth, pulp-free consistency akin to a juiced beverage, you’ll need to strain the blended mixture. Carefully pour the blended liquid through a fine-mesh sieve lined with cheesecloth, or, even better, use a specialized nut milk bag. Gather the edges of the cloth or bag and gently squeeze, allowing the fresh juice to drip into a clean bowl or pitcher below. This process removes the majority of the fibrous pulp, leaving you with a light, clear, and easy-to-drink juice. Don’t discard that precious pulp! It’s a goldmine of fiber and nutrients that can be repurposed. For instance, you can use it to make delightful and healthy Carrot Crackers or add it to muffins and smoothies.

Step Four: Serve and Savor Immediately

The optimal way to enjoy your homemade beetroot and carrot juice is to serve it immediately after preparation. Freshly made vegetable juices retain the highest concentration of their delicate vitamins, enzymes, and antioxidants, which can begin to degrade over time through exposure to air and light. Pour your vibrant juice into a glass, perhaps over a few ice cubes if you prefer it chilled, and savor every sip of its natural goodness. The taste is incredibly fresh, slightly earthy, and perfectly balanced with the sweetness of the apple and carrots.

An Important Health Note: While beet and carrot juice offers numerous health benefits, it’s always wise to exercise caution and consult with your healthcare provider if you are managing specific health conditions. This is especially important if you are trying to lower blood pressure, regulate blood sugar levels, or if you have pre-existing heart disease or digestive issues. Carrot beetroot juice can naturally have a higher nitrate content, which while beneficial for many, might require careful consideration depending on your individual health profile. Always ensure this healthy addition aligns with your personal dietary needs and medical advice.

• 2 medium beets, thoroughly scrubbed and rinsed well (greens, tops, and bottoms removed)
• 3 large carrots, scrubbed and rinsed well (tops removed)
• 1 medium apple (any variety, such as Granny Smith or Gala), washed and cored

Instructions

1. Prepare the Produce: Wash your beets, carrots, and apple thoroughly. For beets and carrots, scrubbing is generally sufficient; peeling is optional, as many nutrients reside close to the skin. Remove beet greens and ends. Core the apple. Cut all produce into pieces appropriate for your chosen equipment: smaller chunks (about 1-inch) for a blender, or larger pieces that fit your juicer’s chute.
2. For Juicer Users: Begin feeding the prepared beet, carrot, and apple pieces through the feeding tube of your juicer. Collect the freshly extracted juice in a clean pitcher or glass. Stir gently and serve immediately for the freshest taste and maximum nutrient retention.
3. For Blender Users: Add the chopped beets, carrots, and apple to the base of your high-speed blender. Pour in ¼ to ½ cup of water (start with ¼ cup and add more if needed) to help facilitate the blending process. Secure the lid and blend on high speed for 30-60 seconds, or until the mixture achieves a smooth, consistent purée.
4. Strain the Blended Juice (Blender Method Only): To achieve a smooth, pulp-free juice, place a fine-mesh colander or a nut milk bag over a large bowl or pitcher. Pour the blended mixture into the colander or bag. Using a spatula or your hands (if using a nut milk bag), gently press and squeeze the mixture to extract all the liquid. Discard the remaining fibrous pulp, or save it for other culinary uses like crackers or adding to baked goods.
5. Serve Immediately: Pour your freshly made beet carrot juice into glasses. For an extra refreshing experience, serve over ice. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and invigorating nutrients right away to ensure you receive all the amazing benefits at their peak.

1. Batch Preparation: This recipe is easily scalable. You can effortlessly double or triple the ingredients if you wish to make more servings for your family or to enjoy over a couple of days.
2. Storage Tips: While fresh juice is always best served right after it’s made, any leftover juice can be stored. Transfer it to a sealed, airtight container (a glass jar works well) and refrigerate for up to 2-3 days. Filling the container to the brim helps reduce oxidation.
3. Apple Varieties: Feel free to experiment with different types of apples! A crisp Granny Smith will add a tart counterpoint, while a sweeter red apple like Gala or Fuji will yield a milder, sweeter juice.
4. Flavor Enhancements: Don’t hesitate to customize your juice! Add a small piece (up to 1-inch) of fresh ginger for a zesty, digestive boost. A squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice can brighten the flavors and add extra Vitamin C.