When it comes to planning your Vietnam travel, there is a delightful and nutritious beverage you absolutely mustn't miss out on, which is pennywort juice. On a scorching summer day, this refreshing beverage not only quenches your thirst but also provides a unique taste of Vietnam's culinary richness.
1. What is pennywort juice? What does it taste like?
Nuoc rau ma is made from the leaves and stems of the herbal plant pennywort. This herb has had wide usage over many years owing to its multiple medicinal values. Pennywort juice tends to be prepared by blending the leaf of pennywort with water along with other ingredients, including lime juice, honey, and beans.
So what does pennywort taste like? It is mildly tangy and herbaceous. The addition of other components helps neutralize the bitterness and gives a hint of sugar to the pennywort leaf juice, making it an exceptional beverage.
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2. Pennywort juice health benefits that you may not know about
Vietnamese people have used pennywort as a tonic for hundreds of years, not only because it tastes good but also because of its numerous medical applications.
Pennywort juice promotes a healthy nervous system and has many essential nutrients which boost the body's immunity. It is good for blood circulation, reducing risks associated with heart problems. It is also a natural medicine for insomnia and some other sleep-related problems. The pennywort drink is also known for its skincare properties, as it is rich in antioxidants which alleviate acne, scars, and other skin conditions.
Pennywort leaf juice has more than physical benefits. The herb is believed to have a calming impact on the mind, lowering stress levels. Indeed, this all-round healthy Vietnamese natural drink justifies its status as a genuinely healthful beverage. Hence, it is unsurprising that pennywort juice has grown in popularity due to its nutritional value and health advantages. This refreshing elixir could be incorporated into your everyday routine to enhance a healthy way of living.
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3. Top 5 variations and ways to make pennywort juice
Pennywort stands out among Vietnamese fruits and herbs thanks to its adaptability. Here is how to make this juice with 5 combinations:
3.1. Pennywort juice with green bean
Combining cooked green beans and pennywort juice leads to a sweet taste with a nutty twist that cancels out the bitterness. This combination also has excellent protein and fiber that makes it a great post-workout drink.
Ingredients:
- 100g of fresh pennywort leaves
- 200g of peeled green beans
- Sugar
- Salt
Instructions:
- Soak the green beans in water for 2 hours, boiling them with a teaspoon of salt for 15 min.
- Drain the beans, wash them in cold water, then blend them into a fine paste.
- Blend the fresh pennywort leaves with 300ml of water in a different blender.
- Use a strainer to separate extraneous materials from the pennyworth mixture.
- Mix the green bean paste with the pennywort juice and add about two tablespoons of sugar.
- The drink can be served iced or chilled.
3.2. Pennywort juice with red bean
Like the green bean variation, blending cooked red beans with pennywort juice creates a sweeter and creamier taste. Red beans are also high in fiber and protein, making this drink a nutritious option for those looking to add more plant-based proteins to their diet.
Ingredients:
- 100g of fresh pennywort leaves
- 200g of red beans
- Sugar
- Salt
Instructions:
- Soak the red beans for about 2 hours
- Mix the softened beans in hot water as you blend them adequately.
- Blend the pennywort leaves lightly with water.
- Pour the pennywort mixture into the blender along with the mashed red beans. Blend well.
- Add salt and sugar to taste.
- This drink can be served chilled or iced.
3.3. Pennywort juice with pineapple
This mixture gives a tropical feel to the usual Vietnamese pennywort drink and is ideal for a hot sunny day. Pineapple contains bromelain, which is an enzyme that helps with digestion, and is one of the wealthiest fruits when it comes to nutritional value.
Ingredients:
- 100g of fresh pennywort leaves
- 1 cup of pineapple chunks
- Lime
- Sugar
Instructions:
- Blend the fresh pennywort leaves with water until smooth.
- Strain the mixture to remove any fibrous bits.
- Add the pineapple chunks and blend again.
- Squeeze in lime juice and add sugar according to your taste preference.
- This drink can be served chilled or iced.
3.4. Pennywort juice with carrot
If you are looking for an additional daily dose of vitamins and minerals, this is the drink for you. Carrot comes with beta-carotene, an antioxidant that helps keep the skin glowing and boost good eyesight.
Ingredients:
- 100g of fresh pennywort leaves
- 2 carrots
- Lime
- Salt
- Sugar
Instructions:
- Wash and cut up the pennywort leaves into tiny pieces with chopped carrots.
- Put the carrots in some water and strain the juice.
- Mix the pennywort leaves in the rest of the water and squeeze out the juice.
- Combine and shake the two juices thoroughly before adding lime juice, a pinch of salt, and sugar to taste.
- Place the drink in the fridge or serve with ice.
3.5. Pennywort juice with apple
This infusion features the tastes of apple and pennywort packed with vitamins and antioxidants. This drink is suitable for any diet as it contains many essential dietary fibers that come from apples.
Ingredients:
- 100g of fresh pennywort leaves
- 2 apples
- Sugar
- Salt
Instructions:
- Cut the apples into small chunks, removing the core.
- Blend the apples to a smooth paste.
- Blend the pennywort leaves with water and drain.
- Strain the mixture using a strainer or cheesecloth to remove any pulp.
- Add lime, sugar, and salt to taste.
- Serve chilled or iced for a refreshing drink.
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4. How to drink pennywort juice properly?
Properly drinking pennywort leaf involves understanding its ingredients and their benefits, as well as the right way to mix it with other ingredients. The key is to balance the bitter taste of pennywort leaves with a hint of sweetness and tanginess. It is recommended to drink pennywort juice within 30 minutes of preparation for maximum nutritional benefits. The best time to drink it is between 10 am and 1 pm, when the body's metabolism is at its peak. Pregnant women should limit their intake as high doses may adversely affect them.
It is essential not to replace filtered water with pennywort juice as it can lead to dehydration. The recommended daily intake of pennywort leaves is around 40 grams, equivalent to approximately two glasses of juice daily. To properly mix pennywort with other ingredients, it is best to use fresh fruits and vegetables. Avoid adding too much sugar or salt, which can reduce the drink's nutritional value.
>>> Cool off with a chilled glass of Vietnamese sugarcane juice!
Besides the pennywort leaf drink, there are many other dishes and beverages typical of Vietnamese cuisine in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, Hoi An, Ha Long, and beyond. Each destination offers a unique culinary adventure that promises a taste of Vietnam like no other.
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With its unique taste and plethora of nutrients, pennywort juice is the perfect addition to your daily routine, promoting overall well-being. Now that you have known how to make this juice, why not craft a glass at home today? It brings an opportunity to create a healthier lifestyle for you and your family!
