Homemade Beetroot Squash: A Healthy and Refreshing Drink
We prepare breakfast, lunch, and dinner as part of our daily routine. However, there are some recipes that can be prepared and preserved for later use. Pickles, jams, and squashes belong to this category.
Imagine you have unexpected guests visiting you during lunchtime. Instead of scrambling to prepare a special drink, you can simply serve them a refreshing glass of squash by adding water and ice cubes. While squashes are readily available in the market, most of them contain artificial coloring agents and preservatives, which may not be good for your health. If you can spare some time in your kitchen, you can prepare a natural, homemade squash using simple ingredients available at home.
Why Beetroot Squash?
One of the simplest and healthiest squashes you can make is Beetroot Squash. Beetroot is a common household vegetable that comes with a natural vibrant color, eliminating the need for artificial coloring agents. Additionally, beetroot is known for its health benefits, particularly in lowering blood pressure. Storing this squash in a bottle allows you to serve a refreshing and nutritious drink to your family and guests anytime.
Ingredients
- Beetroot – 1 kilogram
- Ginger – 2-inch piece, crushed
- Lime juice – Juice of 10 large limes
- Water – 2.5 liters
- Sugar – 2 kilograms
- Citric acid – 1 teaspoon
Method of Preparation
- Scrape, wash, and chop the beetroot.
- Boil the chopped beetroot with crushed ginger in 2.5 liters of water for 40 minutes.
- Remove from heat and strain the deep-colored water into a clean container.
- Add sugar to the strained water and place it back on the stove.
- Stir continuously and cook until a thick syrup forms.
- Add lime juice and let it boil for another 10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and add citric acid.
- Allow the squash to cool slightly before storing it in a clean, dry bottle.
Important Note
- Ensure that the strained beetroot water does not exceed 6 cups after boiling. If it does, continue heating until it reduces to 6 cups before adding sugar to make the syrup.
With this simple recipe, you can prepare a homemade, preservative-free squash that is both healthy and delicious. Enjoy the benefits of beetroot while treating your guests to a refreshing drink! Happy cooking!
