bayberry juice

How to Make Yangmei Juice: A Complete Guide

Yangmei juice, or bayberry juice, is a tangy, refreshing summer drink packed with vitamin C and antioxidants. Making it at home is simple and allows you to control sweetness. Here’s a step-by-step guide.

First, choose ripe, firm yangmei (dark red or purple). Rinse them under cold water to remove dirt. Soak in saltwater for 10 minutes to eliminate any insects, then rinse again. Remove the stems and discard any spoiled fruit.

Next, prepare the yangmei. For a smoother juice, blend 500g yangmei with 200ml water until smooth. For a pulpy version, mash them with a fork or potato masher. Transfer the mixture to a pot and add 300ml water and 50-100g sugar (adjust to taste). Simmer over medium heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the fruit softens and sugar dissolves.

Let the mixture cool, then strain it through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl, pressing the pulp to extract maximum juice. For a clearer juice, strain twice. Pour the juice into sterilized bottles or jars and refrigerate. It stays fresh for up to a week.

Enjoy it chilled, diluted with water, or mixed with soda for a fizzy twist. This homemade yangmei juice is a healthy, delicious way to savor summer flavors!