Creme fraiche - what is this product, how to prepare it and what can it be replaced with? What are freshies? The benefits of freshly squeezed juices A rich smoothie recipe with pumpkin.

Many of us love fruit drinks. And the most useful of all is fresh. And what is it? And how to properly prepare and consume it? What it is? Fresh is freshly squeezed juice. This drink is incredibly healthy, because unlike store-bought juices in bottles and bags, it does not contain preservatives. And the concentration of useful substances and active components in it is simply off scale, because the juice is not subjected to heat treatment or purification. In general, fresh juice is a real health drink. What are they made of?

Fresh juices are usually prepared from vegetables, berries and fruits. As for fruits, citrus fruits (especially oranges) and apples are most often used. Almost any berries are used, because they are all juicy. Some people prefer fresh vegetable juices made from carrots, tomatoes, celery and other ingredients. One way or another, the main component must be juicy, ripe, fresh and of high quality. To make the drink as healthy as possible, use seasonal fruits, vegetables and berries purchased in large, trusted stores or at officially registered fairs or markets. And it is best to purchase such products from familiar and trusted sellers, for example, friends or neighbors who have and maintain a garden. How is it prepared?

There are several ways to prepare fresh juices: The most convenient way to prepare fresh juices is to use a juicer. And it’s better to buy one that can squeeze juice from both fruits and vegetables and berries with seeds. If you don’t have a juicer, then you can do without it, but in this case, getting fresh juice will be very problematic, and the amount of juice will be much smaller. You can squeeze the juice from citrus fruits with your own hands. Simply cut the fruit into several slices and, one at a time, squeeze them forcefully in your hands over a glass. Make sure to squeeze out all the juice without leaving any residue. You can also squeeze berries such as cherries, raspberries, strawberries or cherries with your hands. But first wrap them in a piece of cloth or gauze folded several times so that the pulp does not get into the juice. Things are much more complicated with hard fruits and vegetables, such as apples, beets, carrots and others. They must first be crushed. You can simply finely chop a vegetable or fruit with a knife, but it is more convenient and effective to use a blender. If you don’t have such a device, take a regular grater. Grind the fruit until the pulp releases juice. Then squeeze the resulting puree through cheesecloth or cloth. How to prepare the components?

Basic preparation steps: First, select suitable berries, fruits or vegetables. Use the juiciest and ripest (perhaps even overripe). Do not take rotten, spoiled or stained ones; their juice will not be healthy or tasty. Wash all the components thoroughly, otherwise the fresh juice will not only not be healthy, but will also cause harm to health, because many bacteria live on the surface of fruits, berries and vegetables. It is advisable to remove the seeds. But if you use a modern juicer or squeeze by hand, then this is not necessary. You don’t have to remove the skin, it won’t hurt (unless, of course, it’s very dense, hard and thick). Now grind the ingredients or immediately start squeezing if you are using a juicer or making fresh juice from citrus fruits. The remaining pulp can be used to make compote or jelly. How to do it? How to prepare healthy and tasty fresh juice? We offer you proven recipes. Orange

The benefits of fresh orange juice are invaluable; it is a real vitamin cocktail. The content of vitamin C in this juice is especially high, and it is necessary for the normal functioning of the immune system, normalization of blood clotting, and strengthening of vascular walls. In addition, oranges contain beta-carotene, which accelerates regeneration processes, protects against the negative effects of free radicals, and also slows down the aging process, improves vision and the condition of mucous membranes and skin. To prepare fresh oranges, cut them into slices and squeeze out the juice. Be careful when drinking this drink! Firstly, do not drink it on an empty stomach, as the acid it contains can irritate the mucous walls of the digestive organs. Secondly, do not overuse it, as excess beta-carotene in the body can lead to the skin turning yellow. One glass a day is enough. Apple

First, let's list the beneficial properties of fresh apple juice. Firstly, apples contain a lot of vitamin C. Secondly, these fruits are rich in pectins, which improve digestion and cleanse the body of toxins and waste. Thirdly, apple juice contains iron, so it should be consumed to prevent anemia. How to cook? Wash and peel the apples, remove the cores. Grate the fruit or grind it in a blender. Transfer the resulting applesauce to cheesecloth or cloth and squeeze out the juice. Remember that fresh apple juice contains acids, so do not drink it in large quantities or on an empty stomach. From celery

Fresh celery is good for weight loss, as it contains only 20 calories per 100 ml. In addition, celery contains a large amount of B vitamins, which are responsible for cell renewal and metabolic processes. It also contains magnesium, which is beneficial for the nervous system, vitamin K, which normalizes blood clotting, zinc, pectin, and many other useful substances that eliminate inflammation. How to cook? Wash, peel and chop the celery root along with the leaves (you can grind it in a blender). Place it all in a bowl and press it well with a spoon so that the juice begins to release. Now squeeze out the remaining juice through a cloth or gauze. Fresh celery can be drunk daily after meals or instead of a snack. Cherry

Probably everyone has heard about what fresh juices are and how useful they are. This name comes from the English word fresh and means freshly squeezed juice. A glass of this drink is nice to quench your thirst on a hot afternoon, finish breakfast, or just enjoy between meals. Thanks to the concentration of nutrients, fresh juice can improve our well-being, lift our mood and energize us.

How did the fashion for fresh juices appear?

These drinks became widespread in the territory of the former Union back in the 90s of the twentieth century. At this time, a craze came to us from the West for cleansing the body of toxins, which were considered the cause of many diseases. So, the consumption of raw plant products, including in the form of juices, was one of the main postulates of detoxification. True, then few of my compatriots knew what fresh juices were - they were usually called freshly squeezed or natural juices. Since then, many of us have come to appreciate and love the delicious, refreshing drink, endowed with a lot of healing properties.

Recently, in the scientific world, the need to combat slagging has been questioned, and juice is no longer given the laurels of a panacea. Nevertheless, many nutrition gurus, nutritionists, gastroenterologists and other doctors recognize that fresh juice is a drink that, if consumed correctly, can bring considerable benefits to the body.

Popular health drink

Today, a healthy lifestyle is trending and does not lose its relevance. With the arrival of modern household appliances in our homes, their use has received a new lease of life. Natural drinks are on the menu of many cafes and restaurants, and shopping centers have islands where you can enjoy them. A few years ago, even a new type of catering establishment called a “fresh bar” appeared, gaining momentum among supporters of proper nutrition. Here you can taste exquisite cocktails made from natural ingredients, as well as other healthy dishes, often vegetarian.

What are they made of?

Natural juices are prepared not only from fruits - berries, vegetables, herbs, roots and medicinal herbs are used. The drink can consist of one component or a mixture of several - the recipe is limited only by the author’s imagination. For a brighter taste, such fresh cocktails are often supplemented with seasonings and spices, and sweetened with honey.

The leader among sweet freshly squeezed juices are citrus fruits, since these fruits are the juiciest. Also, pineapples, apples and a variety of berries are often found as an ingredient in fresh juices. The most popular vegetable juices are tomato, carrot, cucumber and celery juices. Chopped greens - spinach, lettuce, cilantro, parsley, dill - perfectly diversify their taste.

What's the benefit?

The beneficial properties of natural juices directly depend on the composition of the products used to make them. After all, in essence, what are fresh juices? those substances contained in vegetables and fruits. And these are vitamins A, C, K, PP and group B, as well as pectins and fiber that improve digestion (in juice with pulp). In addition, plant foods, especially leafy vegetables and greens, are rich in some microelements - potassium, magnesium, calcium, zinc, iron and others. By drinking a glass of freshly prepared drink, a person immediately receives many of these essential substances. For example, fresh orange juice can provide us with a daily dose of vitamin C, a significant amount of vitamin A, and also partially cover the need for vitamins B, K, E, calcium and some amino acids.

In addition, natural juices are a delicacy that any fan of a low-calorie diet will appreciate. True, in this case, preference should still be given to vegetable drinks, since fruit drinks contain a lot of easily digestible carbohydrates.

Is there any harm?

Despite its ability to have a beneficial effect on the body, it is worth remembering that fresh juice is still a juice, that is, a food product, and not a medicine that can relieve ailments. Recently, the euphoria about the unconditional benefits of this drink has subsided a little. Today it is generally accepted that uncontrolled consumption of natural juices can cause negative consequences. Their harm is associated with exacerbation of chronic diseases of the digestive system, from gastritis to pancreatitis, which can develop due to increased stomach acidity. For the same reason - due to exposure to acids - teeth can also be damaged. This is the problem with fresh orange juice - it reduces the hardness of the enamel and can cause caries. In addition, sweet fruit juices contain too much glucose, which is quickly absorbed, causing blood sugar levels to rise and insulin to be released, increasing the risk of diabetes.

However, all this is not a reason to refuse to eat fresh juices. The main thing is to do it wisely!

Cooking rules

If, instead of visiting a juice bar and treating yourself to a flavorful cocktail, you decide to make it yourself, remember a few rules. Freshly squeezed juice should be prepared from high-quality ripe vegetables and fruits, free from rot, “stale” sides, bruises and other defects. They need to be washed thoroughly and the stalks, seeds and seeds removed. Ideally, it would be good to make sure that the selected raw materials do not contain harmful chemicals that may have been used during cultivation or storage. Otherwise, you risk taking a portion of nitrates and pesticides instead of vitamins.

Fresh juice should be prepared strictly before consumption, since the beneficial substances it contains quickly decompose under the influence of oxygen. On the contrary, pathogenic bacteria multiply! It is also necessary to reduce to a minimum the time the fruit comes into contact with the metal parts of the juicer - this destroys many vitamins.

So, we figured out what fresh juices are, what their advantages and disadvantages are. To avoid harm and get the most benefit from using them, you need to do it correctly.

It is better to start taking natural juices with a couple of tablespoons, and then gradually increase the volume. You should drink fresh juices 30-40 minutes before your next meal, but not on an empty stomach. You should also not do this during a meal, since a full stomach will impair the absorption of the drink, which may result in bloating. It is quite acceptable to mix juices, including fruit and berry juices with vegetables, and also dilute them with water. To avoid prolonged exposure to acid on tooth enamel, it is better to drink fresh juice through a straw, and after drinking, rinse your mouth with water. If you have chronic digestive diseases, it is better not to start taking natural juices without consulting your doctor. Also, these drinks should not be given to children under one year of age.

Perhaps this is all you need to know about freshly squeezed juices. Now you can safely go to the store to buy ingredients to prepare a delicious, healthy and refreshing natural drink.

Creme fraiche is the national fermented milk product for residents of France. For many, the attractiveness of this product lies in the fact that its fat content is no more than 30%. The consistency of crème fraîche is somewhat similar to sour cream. The manufacturing processes of these fermented milk products are also similar. This product is prepared from high quality cow's milk. Creme fraiche has its characteristic pleasant taste with a slight sourness.

The production process can be divided into several stages. First, cream is prepared from milk, which is sent to a large container. In it they are mixed with bacteria, which have a direct impact on the taste of the final product. The cream is left in this state for at least 19 hours, while the temperature should be approximately 30 degrees. Thanks to this, bacteria provoke the production of lactic acid and sugar. Crème fraîche is then not subject to repeated heat treatment, unlike other fermented milk products.

In general, we can distinguish several varieties of this product, which differ not only in fat content, but also in taste. Today on store shelves you can find creme fraiche with 15, 18 and 28% fat content. In addition, you can find options with various additions, for example, with herbs, garlic, etc.

Many people are interested in the question: “Is it possible to replace creme fraiche with sour cream?” The answer to this question is positive only if the dish is not subjected to heat treatment. Otherwise, use heavy cream.

How to select and store?

First of all, you need to look at the composition of the product, since certain requirements are put forward for the composition of creme fraiche. In no case should the list of ingredients used contain preservatives, stabilizers or any other additives. This product should be stored in the refrigerator in a closed container.

Beneficial features

The benefit of creme fraiche is that it contains substances necessary for normal life. It contains phosphorus and calcium, which have a direct effect on the regeneration and strengthening of bone tissue. Creme fraiche also contains potassium, which is necessary for the cardiovascular system. Rich in creme fraiche and a complex of vitamins that have a beneficial effect on the functioning of the whole body.

Use in cooking

Creme fraiche is widely used in cooking. For example, it is included in the recipe for first courses, and various sauces are also prepared on its basis. In addition, creme fraiche can be used as a marinade for meat or poultry.

How to make creme fraiche at home?

If you don't trust store-bought options, you can make this product at home.

To make creme fraiche, you need to take 250 g of low-fat cream (no more than 20%) and 2 tbsp. spoons 2.5% kefir. It is important that the ingredients are at room temperature, so it is recommended to remove them from the refrigerator in advance. Take a wide-necked jar, 0.5 liters is enough, and pour the cream into it, combine with kefir and mix thoroughly. Cover the top of the jar with a lid or cloth and leave for a day. After the time has passed, the fermented milk product is ready. If you put the creme fraiche in the refrigerator for 1 hour, it will become thicker and tastier.

Harm of crème fraîche and contraindications

Creme fraiche can be harmful to people with individual intolerance to the product.

It would seem that what is so special about kiwi. Well, at least the fact that this fruit is very good for the skin. One kiwi contains almost all the daily requirement of vitamin C that the body needs. And, in addition, kiwi is also a low-calorie product, or more precisely, it contains only 42 calories.

Fresh kiwi fruit has a healing effect on the skin, as it promotes the synthesis of collagen, without which elasticity and youthfulness of the skin are simply impossible. Fresh also restores damaged areas of the skin, such as scars or abrasions. Freshly squeezed kiwi juice helps strengthen capillaries.

Fresh tomato

Many people do not like freshly squeezed tomato juice. And in vain, because it is very beneficial for the skin. If you drink only one glass a day, then you can forget about going to the dermatologist and cosmetologist; you won’t need face masks for acne. Fresh tomato perfectly protects delicate skin from environmental influences and aggressive sun rays. And this happens due to the presence of a special ingredient in it - lycopene.

In order for lycopene to be better absorbed, you need to add a little vegetable fat to a glass of juice. Olive oil will enhance the beneficial properties of tomatoes.

Fresh pomegranate

– an excellent antioxidant. Thanks to anthocyanin substances, it prevents early skin aging, accelerates the process of renewal of dead cells and gives the skin a velvety feel.

Pomegranate is also very rich in vitamin C, which helps the skin look smooth and elastic for longer.

Fresh carrots

Everyone knows about the benefits of carrots for the eyes, but they are also very important for beautiful skin. Carrots are rich in vitamin A, which normalizes sebum secretion and accelerates the process of renewal of the upper layer of skin.

Carrots also have an anti-cancer effect, so you should regularly drink a glass of freshly squeezed carrot juice.

Fresh grapes

Grapes, like pomegranate, are powerful antioxidants. It prevents the destruction of proteins essential for skin beauty, such as collagen and elastin.