CATEGORY
Refrigerated Carrot Juice
2008 CHEFSBEST® AWARD FOR BEST TASTE WINNER
Odwalla
What Makes a Great Carrot Juice?
The mention of carrot juice usually elicits images of healthy diets and weekly workouts, but there’s no pain or sacrifice necessary with this subtly sweet and tasty drink. It may or may not improve your eyesight, but a quality carrot juice will definitely add to your morning routine.
The best carrot juices look like they’re fresh from the farm, with a bright and natural orange color. Their aroma gives the same impression. Quality carrot juices have a clearly identifiable smell that lets you know they’re pure and untainted.
The most basic taste of a refrigerated 100% carrot juice is sweetness. It should be natural and unprocessed, rather than overwhelming or strong. Saltiness, sourness, and bitterness will also play a role in the overall character, but will always be much more low-key and subdued.
Premium carrot juices pack a punch. There should be a strong carrot flavor and a moderate weight to the juice, with a brisk, non-acidic aftertaste.
We know what makes a great carrot juice, but what makes a bad one?
Avoid refrigerated carrot juices that look dull, drab, or muted in color. Not surprisingly, it’s these types of sub-par juices that have a bland, almost cooked flavor, and a sometimes chalky finish.
Why is Odwalla the best carrot juice?
We awarded Odwalla the ChefsBest Award because it seemed possible—from the fresh, sweet character of the carrot juice—that it could have actually been plucked from the ground that very morning. The natural notes were well-rounded and reminiscent of a crisp, fresh carrot rather than a soggy cooked one. The flavor tasted healthy, and the color was bright and alluring.
Other Leading Brands:
Bolthouse Farms, Naked Juice Company
ONE-STEP IDEAS
To make a non-alcoholic honey bunny cocktail, mix 1 cup of carrot juice with 1/2 cup of orange juice and 2 teaspoons of grenadine.
Stir in sweetened, condensed milk and a touch of vanilla for a creamy treat.
Mix half-and-half with other fruit or vegetable juices for endless flavor variations.
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TASTING
TERMINOLOGY
PRODUCT
FUN FACTS
- Cultivated in seventh century Afghanistan, the original carrots were purple rather than orange.
- Carrots contain more vitamin A than any other vegetable.
- Mel Blanc, the original voice for Bugs Bunny, did not like carrots.
The ChefsBest Award for Best Taste is awarded to the brand rated highest overall among leading brands by independent professional chefs.
