Juice Archives | CaribbeanPot.com

There are few things more satisfying on a hot summer’s day than a cold glass of homemade lemonade. This Strawberry Apple Cider Lemonade has become one of my favorite ways to cool down when strawberries are in season and the sun is scorching. It’s not a traditional Caribbean drink (use of strawberries and apple cider), but part of my #InSeason series, where I highlight fresh, local ingredients that are in season.

This recipe combines the sweetness of ripe strawberries with the bright tartness of lemon juice and the crisp flavor of fresh-pressed apple cider. What makes it extra special is the chance to give it a subtle island vibe with a couple drops of Angostura bitters and a splash of vanilla or mixed essence—three ingredients you’ll find in almost every West Indian kitchen.

It’s perfect served over ice for the whole family, but if you’re looking for an adult version, you can easily stir in a bit of dark rum, vodka, or even sparkling wine for a refreshing summer cocktail. However you make it, this lemonade is a colorful and cooling drink that will quickly become a warm-weather favorite.

Ingredient Guide

Strawberries – Sweet and juicy, they give the lemonade its vibrant color and natural fruitiness.
Raw Cane Sugar – Adds sweetness while keeping the drink balanced and not overly tart.
Water – Blends the flavors and keeps the lemonade light and refreshing.
Lemons – Freshly squeezed juice provides brightness and acidity.
Apple Cider – Fresh-pressed cider adds depth and a subtle apple sweetness (not vinegar).
Angostura Bitters – Optional, but adds a complex Caribbean flavor with herbal notes.
Vanilla Essence – Another optional ingredient that brings warmth and roundness to the flavor.
Lemon and Strawberry Slices – Used for garnish, they make the drink look as refreshing as it tastes.
Dark Rum, Vodka, or Sparkling Wine – Optional add-ins for an adult version of the lemonade.

Cooking Notes from the Kitchen

Fresh lemon juice is always best, but bottled lemon juice will work if that’s what you have.
You can use any sweetener you prefer, such as honey or agave syrup, instead of cane sugar.
If you like a smoother lemonade, strain the strawberry purée before mixing. If you enjoy texture, keep the pulp.
Apple juice is a good substitute if fresh cider isn’t available.
Mix in the alcohol only before serving to keep it fresh and balanced.

Shopping Made Easy

Most grocery stores carry fresh strawberries in summer, but frozen berries can work in a pinch.
Look for raw cane sugar in the baking aisle, though white sugar or other sweeteners are easy swaps.
Fresh lemons are usually available year-round; choose ones that feel heavy for their size.
Apple cider is often sold in the refrigerated section of supermarkets or local farmers’ markets.
Angostura bitters and vanilla essence are easy to find at a West Indian grocery store.

Questions People Ask

Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider in this recipe?

Yes, apple juice works well if you can’t find fresh-pressed cider. The flavor will be slightly lighter but still refreshing.

What’s the difference between apple cider and apple cider vinegar?

Apple cider is the sweet, unfiltered juice of apples, while apple cider vinegar is fermented and sour. Be sure to use apple cider, not vinegar, in this recipe.

How do I make this Strawberry Apple Cider Lemonade alcoholic?

Stir in 1/2 cup of dark rum, vodka, or sparkling wine before serving for a refreshing cocktail version.

Can I make this lemonade ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Add garnishes and alcohol (if using) just before serving.

Do I need to strain the strawberries for this lemonade?

Not necessarily. Straining removes the pulp for a smoother texture, but leaving it in gives the drink more body and flavor.

Strawberry Apple Cider Lemonade

A refreshing summertime drink made with fresh strawberries, lemon juice, and apple cider. With optional Caribbean touches like Angostura bitters and vanilla essence, this lemonade can be enjoyed as a family-friendly cooler or with a splash of rum for an adult twist.

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Prep Time 15

Total Time 15

Course Drinks & Smoothies, Spring Recipes, Summer Recipes

Ingredients

3/4 lb strawberries washed, hulled, chopped
1 cup raw cane sugar
6 cups water divided
3 cups apple cider
couple drops Angostura bitters optional
1 teaspoon vanilla essence optional
lemon slices for garnish, optional
strawberry slices for garnish, optional
1/2 cup dark rum, vodka, or sparkling wine optional

Instructions

Prep your ingredients in advance. Wash, hull, and chop the strawberries. Juice the lemons. Place the chopped strawberries in a blender with 1 cup of water and blend until smooth. TIP! If the water is lukewarm, it will help dissolve the sugar easily.
Pour the strawberry purée into a large pitcher. Strain if you prefer a smoother lemonade, or keep the pulp for added texture.
Stir in the raw cane sugar until dissolved.
Add the freshly squeezed lemon juice, remaining 5 cups water, and apple cider. Mix well.
Taste and adjust sweetness as needed. If using, stir in a couple drops of Angostura bitters and vanilla essence.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or serve immediately over ice.
Garnish with lemon and strawberry slices before serving.
For an adult version, add dark rum, vodka, or sparkling wine just before serving.

Keyword apple cider, apple cider lemonade, featured, how to make lemonade, in season, lemonade, strawberries, strawberry juice, strawberry lemonade, summertime lemonade

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Caribbean Classics Drinks & Smoothies Featured General Caribbean Spring Recipes Summer Recipes Vegan

Easy Tropical Mango Passionfruit Juice

January 7, 2026July 25, 2025Leave a Comment

There’s nothing quite like the scent and taste of sun-ripened passionfruit. During passionfruit season back home in Trinidad and Tobago, my brother and I would wake up early and rush to the old Poui tree behind our house where the passionfruit vine grew, hoping to collect the fragrant fruit that had fallen overnight. On the days we forgot, we’d find an abundance waiting for us to gather for Mom to make into juice and ‘iceblocks’.

This Easy Tropical Mango Passionfruit Juice is my way of keeping that fond memory alive. In Canada, the fruit isn’t quite the same as they are imported, but with frozen pulp or store-bought puree, I can still enjoy a vibrant, refreshing drink that reminds me of those childhood mornings. I often find passionfruit pulp at Asian, West Indian, or Latin American supermarkets, usually in the frozen fruit section.

Blending mango and passionfruit delivers a balance of sweet and tart that hits just right. Whether you keep it simple for the kids or add a splash of rum or champagne for the grown-ups, this recipe brings a little bit of tropical sunshine to any season.

Ingredient Guide for Tropical Mango Passionfruit Juice

Passionfruit Pulp: The star of this drink, packed with floral aroma and tropical tartness.
Sugar: Used to balance the tartness of the passionfruit.
Water: Helps steep the syrup and thins the final drink to the perfect consistency.
Frozen Mango Pieces: Adds body, sweetness, and a velvety texture to the juice.
Angostura Bitters (optional): Adding a few drops can enhance the tropical flavor.
Vanilla Essence (optional): Adds a soft, aromatic layer to the drink.
Lime or Lemon Juice (optional): Enhances brightness and balances sweetness.

Shopping Made Easy

You can find frozen passionfruit pulp at many Asian or Latin American grocery stores.
Look for frozen mango pieces in the same section where you find smoothie ingredients.
West Indian groceries often carry both pulp and fresh passionfruit in season.
If using fresh fruit, about 8–10 passionfruit will yield 1 cup of pulp.
Use granulated sugar, but feel free to substitute with honey, agave, or cane sugar.

Cooking Notes from the Kitchen

Heat the passionfruit pulp gently to dissolve the sugar and draw out the flavor—don’t let it boil.
Straining the passionfruit pulp is crucial for removing seeds and achieving a smoother texture.
Chill the juice well before serving or pour it over crushed ice for a refreshing finish.
This drink is easy to customize, play with bitters, citrus, or vanilla to suit your taste.
For an adult twist, mix in vodka, dark rum, or champagne before serving.

What are the best substitutes for fresh passionfruit in this Tropical Mango Passionfruit Juice?

If you can’t find fresh passionfruit, use frozen passionfruit pulp or store-bought passionfruit juice. These are often found at Latin American, West Indian, or Asian grocery stores.

Can I use fresh mango instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Fresh, ripe mangoes will give you an even more vibrant flavor. Just peel and cube them before blending.

What’s the best way to sweeten passionfruit juice?

Granulated or brown sugar is traditional, but honey, cane syrup, or even agave nectar are also suitable alternatives. Adjust the amount to suit your taste and the tartness of the fruit.

Where can I buy passionfruit pulp?

Check the frozen fruit section of Asian, Latin American, or West Indian grocery stores. It’s often sold in pouches or containers labeled for smoothies or juices.

How do I make passionfruit juice less tart?

Adjust the sweetness by adding more sugar, honey, or another natural sweetener. You can also balance the tartness with mango, citrus, or a touch of vanilla.

How long does this Tropical Mango Passionfruit Juice last?

Store the juice in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Shake or stir before serving as natural settling may occur.

How can I turn this Tropical Mango Passionfruit Juice into a cocktail?

Once the juice is chilled, add a splash of vodka, dark rum, or even champagne for a festive adult version. Serve in tall glasses with ice and a garnish of mint or citrus.

Easy Tropical Mango Passionfruit Juice

A sweet-tart fragrant tropical juice that blends mango and passionfruit for a refreshing island drink—perfect on its own or with a splash of rum.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 10

Total Time 20

Course Caribbean Classics, Drinks & Smoothies, Spring Recipes, Summer Recipes, Vegan

Cuisine General Caribbean

Ingredients

1 cup passionfruit pulp thawed
1 cup sugar
9 cups water divided
2 cups frozen mango pieces
1 teaspoon vanilla essence optional
Few drops Angostura bitters optional
1 of Juice lime or lemon optional

Instructions

Place the passionfruit pulp in a medium saucepan with the sugar and 3 cups of water. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Once small bubbles appear, remove from heat, stir well, and allow the mixture to cool to room temperature.
In a high-speed blender, combine the remaining 6 cups of water with the frozen mango pieces. Blend until smooth.
Pour the mango puree into a large mixing bowl or jug.
Strain the cooled passionfruit syrup through a fine mesh strainer into the mango mixture, discarding the seeds.
Stir to combine and taste the juice. Adjust sweetness if needed and add vanilla essence, bitters, or lime juice if using.
Chill before serving or serve over crushed ice.
For a boozy version, add vodka, dark rum, or champagne before serving.

Notes

Notes! The passionfruit syrup will keep in the fridge for at least 2 weeks. Please refer to the video for much more about the recipe.

Keyword beginner, Caribbean Classics, drinks, Fusion, mango recipes, passionfruit, refreshing juices, summer recipes, Sunday Dinners, tropical drinks

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Drinks & Smoothies Featured

Invigorating Tropical Starfruit Juice

January 7, 2026June 11, 2025Leave a Comment

This Tropical Starfruit Juice (also known as carambola) is a vibrant and healthful drink that showcases the sweet‑tart flavor of starfruit. Loaded with vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber, this juice is refreshing and good for you. It’s perfect for starting the day, pairing with brunch, or enjoying poolside on a hot afternoon. With its glowing golden hue and crisp citrus notes, this juice is both invigorating and visually stunning.

Ingredient Guide

Starfruit (Carambola): Offers a tart-sweet base and striking star-shaped slices when garnished.
Water: Adjust to taste for thickness and intensity—less for a richer flavor.
Sugar: Balances acidity—opt for granulated or any sweetener you prefer.
Lemon Juice: Brightens and provides refreshing zest.
Orange Extract: Adds tropical citrus aroma.
Optional Flavor Boosters: Almond extract, mixed essence, or bitters for unique layers of flavor.

Shopping Made Easy

Starfruit: Look for firm fruit with smooth, glossy edges and a light golden color.
Sugar and Citrus Juice: Regular pantry items—freshly squeezed lemon juice is best.
Flavor Enhancers: Small bottles of orange extract, almond extract, and bitters are great to have on hand for occasional use.
Water: Use filtered water for clean, crisp taste.

Cooking Notes from the Kitchen

Blend in batches if needed, start with 6 cups of water for a stronger flavor, add more if desired.
Strain thoroughly to remove pulp and achieve a smooth, clear juice.
Add lemon juice right after straining to protect the bright color and add freshness.
Adjust sweetness after chilling, as cold temperatures can dull perception of sweetness.
Serve chilled, garnished with starfruit slices and a sprig of mint for visual appeal.

Invigorating Tropical Starfruit Juice

A refreshing Caribbean beverage made with fresh starfruit (carambola), citrus juice, and tropical flavor enhancers. This vibrant starfruit juice is rich in vitamin C, perfect for cooling down on hot days or brightening up any brunch table with its tangy-sweet profile.

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Prep Time 10

Total Time 10

Course Drinks & Smoothies

Servings

Ingredients

3 large starfruit about 2 lbs; washed and roughly chopped
2/3 cup sugar or preferred sweetener
2 lemons juiced
6-8 cups water adjust to taste
1 tablespoon orange extract

Optional

1 teaspoon almond extract
1 teaspoon mixed essence
a few drops of bitters

Instructions

Clean and chop the starfruit. Rinse thoroughly, trim the ridges, remove any seeds, and roughly chop.
In a blender, combine starfruit and 6–7 cups water.
Blend on high for 1–2 minutes until very smooth.
Strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a large bowl, pressing to extract all the juice.
Immediately stir in lemon juice; this preserves the bright color and adds freshness.
Add sugar, orange extract, and any optional extracts/bitters. Stir until fully dissolved.
Taste and adjust sweetness or water level, especially if serving over ice. Chill thoroughly, then stir before pouring to recombine any separated ingredients.
Serve cold, garnished with starfruit slices and mint leaves (optional).

Notes

Additional ingredients you may use for subtle flavor enhancements are almond extract (1 teaspoon), mixed essence (1 teaspoon), and a few drops of Angourtara Bitters. I used granulated sugar as the sweetener, but you may use anything you prefer.

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Carrot juice in a pitcher and a tall glass on a counter with pulped carrot in the background

Drinks & Smoothies Featured Jamaican Vegetarian

Easy Jamaican Carrot Juice (Carrot Punch)

January 7, 2026June 11, 2025Leave a Comment

This Jamaican-style Carrot Juice (Carrot Punch) brings back warm memories of sipping bright orange drinks served at breakfast tables during visits to Kingston. Made with fresh carrots, ginger, warm spices, and a touch of sweetened condensed milk, this recipe is delightfully creamy and comforting. It’s perfect chilled over ice or turned into a festive adult beverage with a splash of rum. If you’re looking for a naturally vibrant, drinkable treat that’s both flavorful and soothing, this is it.

Ingredient Guide

Carrots: The bold base, providing natural sweetness, vibrant color, and essential nutrients.
Ginger: Adds a spicy-lively warmth that elevates the flavor.
Water: Used to blend and extract full juice; divide between blender batches.
Lime Juice: Brightens the color and adds refreshing citrus balance.
Ground Cinnamon & Nutmeg: Infuse the drink with comforting, fragrant Caribbean spice notes.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: Delivers creamy sweetness and rich texture—adjust to taste.
Vanilla Extract: Aromatic depth and subtle sweetness.
Optional Rum: Turns this juice into an adult-friendly, festive cocktail.

Shopping Made Easy

Carrots: Choose firm, brightly colored carrots; organic if available; any variety works here.
Ginger: Look for plump roots with smooth, unwrinkled skin; store extra in your freezer for future use.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: Standard cans work well; use dairy-free versions to make this recipe vegan.
Ground Spices: Freshly grated nutmeg and ground cinnamon bring genuine flavor; use pantry staples if needed.
Vanilla and Lime Juice: Always check labels for pure vanilla extract and fresh limes for the best aromatic quality.

Cooking Notes from the Kitchen

Blend in batches to ensure smooth consistency and prevent overworking your blender.
Strain twice for silky texture; use cheesecloth for an ultra-smooth finish, or a fine sieve for quicker prep.
Add lime juice immediately after straining to preserve the beautiful bright orange color and prevent oxidation.
Adjust sweetness thoughtfully. Start with about two-thirds of the condensed milk, taste, and whisk in more if needed, especially if serving over ice.
Chill thoroughly before serving—this drink is far more refreshing when cold and settles naturally, so stir before pouring.
For an adult twist, stir in rum just before serving and garnish with a lime wheel or mint leaf.

Easy Jamaican Carrot Juice (Carrot Punch)

A creamy, spice-infused Caribbean drink made from fresh carrots, ginger, and warm seasonings.

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Prep Time 15

Total Time 15

Course Drinks & Smoothies, Vegetarian

Cuisine Jamaican

Ingredients

3 pounds carrots trimmed, chopped
2 pieces ginger sliced
8 cups water
1 lime juiced
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
3/4 teaspoon nutmeg grated
1 can sweetened condensed milk
1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Option

dark rum to taste, for adult version

Instructions

Peel and roughly chop the carrots. Add half the carrots, one slice of ginger, and 4 cups of water to a blender. Puree until smooth. Repeat with the remaining carrots, ginger, and water.
Puree until smooth. Repeat with the remaining carrots, ginger, and water.
Strain the blended mixture using a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a large bowl. Press or squeeze to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the pulp.
Add lime juice immediately after straining to prevent discoloration. Stir in cinnamon, grated nutmeg, vanilla extract, and sweetened condensed milk. Start with 2/3 of the can, then taste and adjust sweetness as needed.
Whisk until fully combined. Chill in the refrigerator before serving. Stir before pouring, as the drink may settle.
To serve, pour over ice. For a festive adult version, add a splash of dark rum.

Notes

If you are making this drink gluten-free, please review the complete list of ingredients to ensure they meet your specific gluten-free dietary requirements. I suggest that you follow along with the video below, as it provides additional information, including alternative sweeteners you can use and instructions on how to keep the drink dairy-free if desired.

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Strawberry Pineapple Juice in 2 glass pitchers and a drinking glass surrounded by sliced strawberry and lemons

Drinks & Smoothies Featured Fusion Vegan Vegetarian

Summertime Pineapple Strawberry Juice

January 7, 2026June 10, 2025Leave a Comment

There’s nothing like a cool, fruity drink to beat the Caribbean heat, and this Tropical Pineapple Strawberry Juice Recipe brings all the vibes of a tropical refreshment without the fuss. I blend up sweet ripe pineapple and juicy strawberries, brighten it with lemon juice, and finish it with that signature Caribbean touch: Mixed Essence, and a dash of bitters if you like.

This one’s super simple to make. Blend it, strain it, sweeten it to your taste, and chill it until it’s ice cold. In the video, I show you how I make mine in two batches to keep the texture smooth and balanced. Serve this up with some floating strawberry slices or a wedge of pineapple and you’ve got yourself a drink that tastes just like summer in the islands.

Ingredient Guide

Ripe Pineapple: Choose one with golden skin and a sweet aroma for the best tropical flavor.
Strawberries: Go for bright red, ripe berries for natural sweetness and vibrant color.
Water: Used to thin the juice; adjust the amount based on how concentrated you like your drinks.
Lemon Juice: Adds a tart kick that balances out the sweetness of the fruit and sugar.
Sugar: Helps to round out the flavors—adjust depending on how sweet your fruit is.
Mixed Essence: Delivers that unmistakable Caribbean flavor; vanilla extract is a good stand-in.
Angostura Bitters (Optional): Adds a touch of spice and depth—leave it out for a kid-friendly version.

Shopping Made Easy

Look for pineapples and strawberries that are fragrant and fully ripe. This is where all your flavor comes from.
Mixed Essence is available in Caribbean groceries or online; vanilla extract is an easy substitute.
Bitters are available near cocktail mixers; totally optional, but they do add a nice complexity.
If you’ve got fresh ginger, blend in a chunk for a spicy twist. It’s a great variation.

Cooking Notes from the Kitchen

Blend in two batches so you don’t overload your blender and to keep the juice smooth.
Strain well and skim off any foam for a clean, refreshing drink.
Chill before serving; it’s best when ice cold.
Taste before chilling and adjust the sugar or lemon to your liking.

Can I use frozen fruit?

Yes. Thaw the pineapple and strawberries first before blending—they’ll work just as well as fresh.

What is Mixed Essence?

It’s a Caribbean flavoring blend with notes of vanilla, almond, and citrus. Use vanilla extract if you can’t find it.

How long will the juice keep?

You can store it in the fridge for up to two days. Stir well before serving.

Is this juice suitable for kids?

Yes! Just leave out the bitters. It’s a refreshing and natural drink for all ages.

How do I turn this into a party drink?

Serve it over ice with rum or vodka on the side, or spike the entire batch for a punch-style cocktail.

Summertime Pineapple Strawberry Juice

A refreshing Caribbean drink blending pineapple, strawberries, citrus, and island flavor, perfect chilled or spiked.

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Prep Time 10

Total Time 10

Course Drinks & Smoothies, Vegan, Vegetarian

Cuisine Fusion

Servings

Ingredients

1 large ripe pineapple cubed
1 lb strawberries
8-10 cups water
1 lemon
3/4 cup sugar
1 tablespoon Mixed Essence
1 teaspoon Angostura bitters

Instructions

Peel, core, and cube the pineapple. Hull and halve the strawberries.
In batches, blend fruit with some of the water until smooth. Strain through a fine mesh strainer into a large bowl or pitcher.
Skim off any foam that rises to the top. Add remaining water, lemon juice, sugar, Mixed Essence, and bitters (if using). Stir well to combine.
Taste and adjust sweetness or acidity if needed. Chill thoroughly before serving over ice. Garnish with pineapple slices or fresh berries.

Notes

Please follow along with the video, as much more about the recipe is discussed there, including what sweeteners to use and how to personalize the sweetness. Feel free to add a thick slice of ginger when you puree the pineapple and strawberries for additional flavor to the drink.

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A pitcher and 2 glasses of pineapple juice on a table with a frond of a pineapple behind

Drinks & Smoothies Featured

Traditional Caribbean Pineapple Juice

January 7, 2026May 8, 2025Leave a Comment

There’s something truly special about the drinks served at Sunday lunch in the Caribbean. While the main meal is always a highlight, many of us grew up equally excited for the homemade fruit juices that would accompany it, flavored with whatever was in season.

From soursop and citrus to passion fruit, mango, and mauby, every glass brought a burst of island flavor. But for me, nothing topped a cold glass of freshly made pineapple juice, poured over ice and packed with the sweet-tart brightness of the tropics. We’d even freeze the leftovers in ice trays to enjoy later as icy treats, what we called ice-blocks. This traditional Caribbean pineapple juice recipe brings back those memories, using fresh fruit, ginger, and a hint of bitters to deliver a refreshing and nostalgic drink just like the ones we grew up with.

This simple, homemade pineapple juice uses the whole fruit, including the skin and core, for maximum flavor, just like our elders taught us. It’s naturally sweet, vibrantly tropical, and perfect for sipping on hot days or serving with any Caribbean meal.

Ingredient Guide

Ripe Pineapple: This tropical fruit is the star of the recipe. Using the peel and core ensures you extract every bit of its bright, tangy flavor.
Granulated Sugar: Used to balance the tartness of the pineapple. Adjust based on how sweet your fruit is naturally.
Fresh Ginger: Adds a subtle warmth and spice that pairs perfectly with pineapple’s natural acidity.
Angostura Bitters: A signature Caribbean flavor booster that deepens the overall taste. Just a couple dashes are enough.

Shopping Made Easy

Pineapple: Choose a ripe pineapple with a golden-yellow hue and a sweet aroma at the base. Slight softness when pressed is a good sign.
Ginger: Fresh ginger root is ideal; look for smooth, firm pieces without wrinkles.
Angostura Bitters: Usually found in the mixer or spice section of larger supermarkets or Caribbean grocery stores.
Sugar: Regular white granulated sugar works best, but brown sugar can be used for a deeper flavor.

Cooking Notes from the Kitchen

Taste As You Go: Pineapple sweetness varies; start with less sugar and adjust after blending if needed.
Serve Cold: Pineapple juice is best enjoyed well chilled or over crushed ice.
Storage Tip: This juice keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Stir before serving, as natural separation is normal.
Reuse the Pulp: Don’t toss the leftover pulp; it can add moisture and fiber to baked goods like muffins or cakes.

Can I make this juice ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it up to 3 days in advance. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator and stir before serving.

What can I do with the leftover pulp?

Use it in smoothies, baking, or freeze it in small portions to add to future juices or marinades.

Is there an alternative to Angostura bitters?

If you don’t have Angostura bitters, you can leave it out or add a dash of vanilla extract for an aromatic twist.

Can I use canned pineapple?

For this recipe, fresh pineapple is best since it uses the skin and core for steeping. Canned pineapple won’t give the same depth of flavor.

Traditional Caribbean Pineapple Juice

Learn to make the best pineapple juice the Caribbean way. It uses fresh pineapple skins, core, and warming spices to create a refreshing homemade juice rich in enzymes and antioxidants, perfect for digestion, immunity, and staying cool.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 30

Total Time 45

Course Drinks & Smoothies

Ingredients

1 large ripe pineapple
3/4 cup granulated sugar
5 cups water
3 slices ginger
2 dashes Angostura bitters

Instructions

Wash the pineapple thoroughly. Remove the skin and core, and set aside the flesh.
In a large pot, combine the pineapple skin and core with water, sugar, and ginger slices. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25–30 minutes.
Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool.
Cut the reserved pineapple flesh into chunks. In a blender, combine the pineapple chunks with the cooled liquid (strain out and discard the skins, core, and ginger slices). Blend until smooth.
Strain the blended mixture to remove any pulp.
Stir in Angostura bitters. Chill before serving over ice.

Notes

Make sure the pineapple is thoroughly washed before using the skin and core.
Adjust sugar to taste based on the sweetness of the pineapple.
Optional: Add a dash of vanilla or almond extract, or a squeeze of lime juice.

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Pitcher of Caribbean Sorrel with filled glass next to it

Drinks & Smoothies Featured Festive & Holiday Recipes Jamaican

Classic Caribbean Sorrel Punch

January 7, 2026April 16, 2025Leave a Comment

If there’s one drink in the Caribbean that truly captures the spirit of Christmas, it’s sorrel. From Trinidad and Tobago and Guyana in the south to Jamaica in the north, a chilled glass of this ruby-red punch is a staple on hot holiday afternoons. Each island adds its own twist, some with rum, others with extra spice, but all celebrate their refreshing tang and cultural importance. This Classic Caribbean Sorrel Punch blends dried hibiscus petals with cloves, cinnamon, ginger, and citrus peel for a vibrant, spiced drink. Use it as your base, and feel free to make it your own.

Pitcher, jar and glass of sorrel with hibiscus petals in front.

Ingredient Guide

Sorrel (Hibiscus): The dried petals provide a tart, cranberry-like flavor and vibrant red color.
Ginger: Adds a spicy kick that balances the tartness of the sorrel.
Cloves: Impart a warm, aromatic depth to the drink.
Cinnamon Stick: Enhances the spiced profile with a sweet, woody note.
Dried Orange Peel: Introduces a citrusy brightness that complements the spices.
Sugar: Sweetens the drink, balancing the tart and spicy elements.

Shopping Made Easy

Sorrel (Dried Hibiscus Petals): Available at Caribbean markets, health food stores, or online retailers.
Spices (Cloves, Cinnamon, Ginger): Commonly found in the spice aisle of most supermarkets.
Dried Orange Peel: Can be made at home by drying orange peels or purchased from specialty spice shops.

Cooking Notes from the Kitchen

Steeping Time: For a more robust flavor, allow the sorrel mixture to steep overnight.
Sweetening: Adjust the sugar to your taste preference; start with less and add more as needed.
Serving Suggestions: Serve chilled over ice, and consider adding a splash of rum for an adult version.

What is the origin of Caribbean sorrel drink?

The Caribbean sorrel drink originates from West Africa, where hibiscus-based beverages are a traditional part of the culture. The practice was brought to the Caribbean through the transatlantic slave trade, evolving into the festive drink known today.

Can I use fresh sorrel instead of dried?

Yes, fresh sorrel can be used. Ensure it’s thoroughly cleaned and the calyces are separated from the seed pods before boiling.

How long can I store sorrel drink?

When refrigerated in a sealed container, sorrel drink can last up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing it.

Is sorrel drink served hot or cold?

Traditionally, sorrel drink is served cold, especially during warm weather or festive occasions. However, it can also be enjoyed warm as a soothing beverage.

Classic Caribbean Sorrel Punch

A festive Caribbean beverage made from hibiscus petals and spices, offering a refreshing and tangy flavor perfect for celebrations.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 30

Total Time 40

Course Drinks & Smoothies, Festive & Holiday Recipes

Cuisine Jamaican

Servings

Ingredients

1 1/2 lb hibiscus flowers trimmed
8 cups water
1 sticks cinnamon
2 pieces dried orange peel
4 cloves
1 slice ginger
sugar to taste

Instructions

Remove the cores from the sorrel flowers and discard.
In a large pot, combine the sorrel petals, water, cinnamon stick, dried orange peel, cloves, and ginger.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer for about 30 minutes.
Remove from heat, cover, and let it steep for a few hours or overnight for maximum flavor.
Strain the mixture using a fine strainer or cheesecloth to remove solids.
Sweeten to taste with sugar. Chill the drink in the refrigerator. Serve over ice, and add a splash of rum if desired.

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Ingredient Guide

Cooking Notes from the Kitchen

Shopping Made Easy

Questions People Ask

Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider in this recipe?

What’s the difference between apple cider and apple cider vinegar?

How do I make this Strawberry Apple Cider Lemonade alcoholic?

Can I make this lemonade ahead of time?

Do I need to strain the strawberries for this lemonade?

Strawberry Apple Cider Lemonade

Ingredients

Instructions

Ingredient Guide for Tropical Mango Passionfruit Juice

Shopping Made Easy

Cooking Notes from the Kitchen

What are the best substitutes for fresh passionfruit in this Tropical Mango Passionfruit Juice?

Can I use fresh mango instead of frozen?

What’s the best way to sweeten passionfruit juice?

Where can I buy passionfruit pulp?

How do I make passionfruit juice less tart?

How long does this Tropical Mango Passionfruit Juice last?

How can I turn this Tropical Mango Passionfruit Juice into a cocktail?

Easy Tropical Mango Passionfruit Juice

Ingredients

Instructions

Notes

Ingredient Guide

Shopping Made Easy

Cooking Notes from the Kitchen

Invigorating Tropical Starfruit Juice

Ingredients 1x2x3x

Optional

Instructions

Notes

Ingredient Guide

Shopping Made Easy

Cooking Notes from the Kitchen

Easy Jamaican Carrot Juice (Carrot Punch)

Ingredients

Option

Instructions

Notes

Ingredient Guide

Shopping Made Easy

Cooking Notes from the Kitchen

Can I use frozen fruit?

What is Mixed Essence?

How long will the juice keep?

Is this juice suitable for kids?

How do I turn this into a party drink?

Summertime Pineapple Strawberry Juice

Ingredients 1x2x3x

Instructions

Notes

Ingredient Guide

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Cooking Notes from the Kitchen

Can I make this juice ahead of time?

What can I do with the leftover pulp?

Is there an alternative to Angostura bitters?

Can I use canned pineapple?

Traditional Caribbean Pineapple Juice

Ingredients

Instructions

Notes

Ingredient Guide

Shopping Made Easy

Cooking Notes from the Kitchen

What is the origin of Caribbean sorrel drink?

Can I use fresh sorrel instead of dried?

How long can I store sorrel drink?

Is sorrel drink served hot or cold?

Classic Caribbean Sorrel Punch

Ingredients 1x2x3x

Instructions

Ingredients

Ingredients

Ingredients