Fresh Squeezed Oj Recipe

Prepare the oranges

Wash the oranges under cool running water and dry them. Roll each orange firmly on the counter with the palm of your hand to soften the flesh and make juicing easier. Cut each orange in half crosswise on the cutting board.

Juice

Using your citrus juicer, press and twist each orange half to extract the juice into a pitcher. If using an electric juicer, follow the manufacturer's instructions. Aim to extract juice from all 6 oranges.

Strain (optional)

If you prefer pulp-free juice, pour the freshly extracted juice through a fine-mesh strainer into a clean pitcher or bowl, pressing gently on solids with the back of a spoon to extract remaining liquid. Discard solids (peel and membranes) or save for use in zesting or compost.

Adjust and dilute

Taste the juice. If it feels too intense, add about 1/4 cup (60 ml) cold water and stir to combine. If the oranges are tart and you prefer sweeter juice, dissolve up to 1 teaspoon granulated sugar in a small amount of juice and stir back in. Refrigerate briefly if you want it colder.

Serve

Fill glasses with ice if using, pour the fresh orange juice over ice, garnish with a mint sprig if desired, and serve immediately for best flavor. Fresh-squeezed juice is best consumed within 24–48 hours; store in a sealed container in the refrigerator.

Rinse the juicer parts, strainer, and pitcher promptly to prevent pulp and sugar from drying. Wash with warm soapy water and air-dry. Wipe the cutting board and knife; sanitize if needed.