Ginger-Apple-Kale Juice

lean and green and made by a machine

When I chose to focus on kale for these 3 posts I wasn't sure what I was going to do for a dessert or drink. Either option sounded quite unpleasant to me. However, my husband reminded me that tons of people make juices from kale. Well, I've never been into juicing, nor have I had a desire really to make one (I like to chew my food). But, I though, let's try it...isn't that what this blog is about anyway?

After doing much research I decided that ginger and apple sounded the most appealing to pair with kale. Still odd, but perhaps the sweetness from the apples and zip from the ginger would wash out the flavor of the kale. And, really, that's what happens. This drink is full of vitamin k from the kale and provides a great boost in energy from the ginger. Try this juice when you are tired of the same old, same old. Here's how to make it...

Ingredients - Serves 4
2 C Kale (suggest curly), washed & dried
2 Green Apples, cored & chopped
2 Ribs Celery, chopped
1/2-1 inch Piece Fresh Ginger, peeled & chopped
1 C Apple Juice (light okay)
Ginger Beer (suggest Reed's)

Directions
Begin by removing the tough ribs from the kale, discard, and then roughly chop the leaves. Pack them into a blender until they reach the 2 cup mark.

To the blender add the apples, celery, ginger, and apple juice. Process until nearly smooth using the liquefy setting. You will have to help the blender at first by moving the ingredients around with a spoon. This will take about 5 minutes.

Once the mixture is nearly smooth remove it to a fine mesh sieve placed over a bowl/measuring cup. I did this in batches to ensure I got all of the liquid out of the mixture. Use your spoon to press out as much liquid as possible from the solids; discard the solids. You will end up with about 2 cups of juice.

Evenly distribute the juice into 4, 8 oz. glasses (about a 1/2 cup each). Top with the ginger beer and enjoy!