The smoothie has certainly taken us by storm.
This freshly-blended, nutrient-filled, ice-cold beverage became an instant hit and the drink of choice in many occasions. Sometimes, though, you might have the feeling that you could improve things in the taste department. Either that, or the health potion is too icy, watery or way too sweet. Still, experimenting on your smoothie is fine as you can always fix things with some secret ingredients.
Sweet about me
One of the most common mistakes is overdoing it with bananas. The result is a smoothie that is too sweet, even for those with a sweet tooth. No need to fret, though, since you can add a bit of acid to counteract the overwhelming sweetness. So, use lemon, apple cider vinegar or lime juice as a yummy addition.
To avoid the same mistake in the future, try to eliminate added sweeteners like maple syrup and sweetened alternative milks. What is more, remember that some fruits are sweeter than others, so be careful with cherries, pineapple, mango, etc. Combine them with low-sugar fruits such as strawberries, avocado, and grapefruit for a killer smoothie.
It is not easy being green
Did you ever have the feeling that your smoothie tastes like dirt? Well, do not dispose of that mixture just yet. The earthy flavor can be masked with vanilla, and the best thing about it is that you are not including any extra sugar or calories. If you are looking for the culprit for this smoothie fiasco, it is probably the green ingredients.
Some of them, like broccoli, are too bitter to be used raw, so opt for spinach, curly kale and beet greens. Another alternative is to go for vegetables with a natural or sweet taste: cucumbers, carrots, or baked potato. Just note that using the freshest vegetables and fruits is advisable, as they always taste better than older ones.
Into the mix
Although the standard smoothie recipe is awesome, it can become dull. Then, how about some interplay of salt and sugar, which introduces some drama and freshness to the taste? Furthermore, let us put all those spices and herbs in your pantry to good use. Think beyond cinnamon and boost your smoothie with some bright flavor in the form of parsley, cilantro, or curry powder.
Even if the list of ingredients seems suspicious, you never know until you try it. Many people do not realize that you can also add gym supplements to enhance the protein value. This is becoming quite popular among those who know that a nutritious diet is the backbone of successful workout routines.
A watery grave
If the beverage is all thin and watery, it is time to thicken it up. Consider some ice first, as it is a calorie-free, proven smoothie thickener. If you do not mind extra sugar, you can choose frozen bananas. Other solutions involve Greek yoghurt, avocado, and rolled oats. Also, next time tone it down on the liquid, no matter if it is water, milk or juice.
Experts recommend that the liquid should come as high as the tip of the blender blade. The same downgrade approach may be needed for fruits like apples and pears because they are high on water. If you crave for that milkshakey, creamy feel of childhood, include some almond butter, organic peanut or coconut milk.
What floats your boat?
Depending on the ingredients, some smoothies have stringy stuff floating around. This is the case when you have leaves with ribs in the center. Send it through a strainer or use a fork as a small fishing net. Next time pay attention when adding celery or ginger that could also be responsible. Make sure you mince its fresh root well.
Even better, you should purchase a better blender that will pulverize even the most stubborn components. A restaurant-grade blender features high performance and multiple speed modes that allow you to use harder substances. Now you can take the health potential to the next level, using exotic superfoods like maca root or chia seeds. See below.
Smooth criminal
Smoothie creation is an exciting playing field, but there are also some rules to follow. Stick to fresh fruits and vegetables and maximize the nutritional potential of the drink. After getting hold of the basics, develop spice-adding skills, and think outside the box. This might be a hit and miss process, but after a while, you will be able to work some magic.
By Mathews McGarry
Mathews McGarry is passionate about many forms of strength training, and spent years lifting, dragging and flipping all manner of heavy objects. After graduating from the Faculty of Health Sciences, he started writing about his experiences, and sharing tips for better life. Follow him on Twitter.
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