Sugarcane juice is a popular summer beverage, loved by many. It is packed with vitamins, minerals, and electrolytes, which help reduce fatigue and replenish the body after strenuous activities or workouts. This drink also has diuretic properties and is known to prevent kidney stones.
Fresh, juicy sugarcane stalks are carefully pressed to extract the vibrant green-colored juice, creating a delightful treat for the eyes and the taste buds.
On hot days, a glass of chilled sugarcane juice can be a refreshing energy boost, helping us stay alert and combating exhaustion. This nutritious and economical drink is readily available from street vendors and small shops throughout the city.
When you order sugarcane juice, you might notice that vendors often add a twist of citrus known as “quat” or “citron.” But why is quat preferred over lemon or lime?
Why Is Quát Added to Sugarcane Juice Instead of Lemon?
The primary purpose of adding quat to sugarcane juice is to temper its sweetness. Sugarcane juice has a high sugar content, and its sweetness can sometimes be overwhelming. The gentle sourness of quat helps balance and mellow the intense sweetness, creating a more harmonious and refreshing drink.
There are two common methods for combining sugarcane and quat. The preferred approach is to press them together, as this allows for the optimal fusion of quat juice and its essential oils, resulting in a perfectly blended beverage.
Alternatively, vendors may choose to press the sugarcane first and then pour the juice into a glass. They will then squeeze the quat (removing the seeds) and add it to the glass. This method avoids any bitterness from the quat’s peel and seeds.
Generally, for every 3-4 stalks of sugarcane, only one quat is needed to impart its unique aroma and subtle tartness. Using too much quat can make the drink overly sour or bitter due to the presence of the peel and seeds.
Contrary to popular belief, adding quat to sugarcane juice does not reduce its sugar content. Instead, quat merely adds a subtle sour note and enhances the aroma without altering the sugar levels. Whether you add quat or ice to your glass of sugarcane juice, the sugar content remains unchanged.
It is recommended to consume quat-infused sugarcane juice immediately, as the quat can cause the drink to spoil faster. If you prefer to keep your sugarcane juice for a more extended period, avoid adding quat. Simply press the sugarcane juice, store it in the refrigerator, and add quat just before serving to enhance the flavor.
While some people may opt to use lemons or limes with sugarcane juice, the combination of sugarcane and quat creates a more distinctive and appealing flavor profile. Additionally, the peel of a lemon has a more pronounced bitterness compared to quat, making it less suitable for pressing with sugarcane.
Innovative vendors have also started experimenting with other fruit combinations, such as pineapple, orange, and watermelon sugarcane juice, creating unique and exotic summer drinks.
How Much Sugarcane Juice Should You Drink Daily?
While sugarcane juice is an excellent way to cool down and rehydrate, it is essential to remember that it is high in sugar. Therefore, moderation is key. A daily intake of around 300ml is sufficient to meet your body’s sugar needs without overdoing it. Excessive sugar consumption, whether from sugarcane juice, other beverages, or sweets, can lead to weight gain, obesity, and increased risks of cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
In addition to being a refreshing drink, sugarcane juice is also used in cooking. It adds a natural sweetness to dishes like braised fish or meat, enhancing their flavor and creating a beautiful glaze. However, when using sugarcane juice for cooking, it is best to omit the quat to avoid altering the dish’s intended flavor profile.
In conclusion, the addition of quat to sugarcane juice is a clever way to soften its sweetness and create a more nuanced and appealing beverage.
Why Do We Put Sugarcane Sticks Together When Juicing?
Sugarcane juice is a delicious and familiar drink to most of us. Ever wondered why vendors often add pomelo when juicing sugarcane? Let’s find out why!
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