10 Fresh Juice Drinks You May Find in Local Markets While Traveling

Exploring local markets during travel introduces individuals to novel flavors. Fresh juices, crafted from diverse ingredients, represent the essence of various locations. Markets globally present an array of options, ranging from common fruit mixes to unusual blends. These concoctions, though unfamiliar, provide an opportunity for discovery.

1. Jackfruit Seed and Pulp Smoothie

Jackfruit Seed and Pulp Smoothie
© Pitaya Foods

South Asian markets utilize jackfruit in a zero-waste approach, producing smoothies from both the fruit’s pulp and seeds. The seeds undergo boiling and blending. The fruit’s flesh offers a sweet, tropical flavor, while the seeds contribute protein and a nutty flavor. This mixture yields a thick, filling drink, functioning as both a beverage and a light meal. The inherent sweetness negates the need for added sugars. Coconut milk is frequently incorporated to achieve a creamier texture. Jackfruits, which can reach up to 80 pounds when fully grown, are fully utilized in this process.

2. Bitter Melon and Apple Blend

Bitter Melon and Apple Blend
@bitespeak.com

Asian health food stalls often feature a beverage combining bitter melon and sweet apples. This drink blends opposing flavors for a balanced taste. The bitter melon, a cucumber-shaped vegetable, is juiced and combined with fresh apple juice. This pairing helps to reduce the intensity of the bitter flavor. Traditional medicine uses this mix for managing blood sugar and supporting liver function. The apple’s sweetness assists in making the bitter melon more agreeable. Vendors often include honey and lemon to improve the taste while keeping the health advantages. This drink is favored by health-aware individuals.

3. Soursop Leaf Tea Blend

Soursop Leaf Tea Blend
© Kauai Farmacy

Caribbean and South American markets offer refreshing beverages derived from soursop leaves. Instead of the fruit, vendors utilize the leaves. These leaves are boiled to produce a tea, consumed either warm or chilled. It’s common to blend the tea with fruit juices to enhance its flavor profile. The leaves are believed to contain compounds that aid in relaxation and sleep. The taste of the tea is mild and grassy. It can be enhanced with ingredients such as lime juice, mint, or natural sweeteners. Vendors often prepare large quantities of the tea in the morning. It is then served throughout the day. It serves as a wholesome alternative to sugary sodas and processed drinks.

4. Durian Fruit Smoothie

Durian Fruit Smoothie
@bitespeak.com

Southeast Asian markets feature smoothies made from durian, a fruit with a distinctive appearance and aroma. Its texture is often described as creamy, similar to custard. Durian’s flavor profile blends sweet and savory elements. When blended with coconut milk and ice, the fruit becomes a smooth and gentle drink. This beverage provides healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. Vendors often include palm sugar to balance the flavors. This results in a drink that may change your initial impressions.

5. Cactus Pear Agua Fresca

Cactus Pear Agua Fresca
© Zesty South Indian Kitchen

Mexican markets offer agua fresca, a refreshing drink made from prickly pear cactus. This beverage, featuring a bright magenta hue, is visually appealing. The preparation involves blending peeled cactus pads with water, lime juice, and occasionally mint, resulting in a cooling effect. This traditional drink aids in blood sugar regulation and offers hydration, particularly in arid environments. Its flavor profile, mild and slightly sweet, is reminiscent of watermelon and cucumber. Vendors meticulously strain the mixture to eliminate any thorns. It’s typically served from large glass containers, with ladles available for customers to serve themselves.

6. Baobab Fruit Powder Drink

Baobab Fruit Powder Drink
© Aduna Superfoods

African marketplaces present beverages made from baobab fruit powder. This powder comes from baobab trees. It is mixed with water and sugar, yielding a tangy, citrus drink, similar to lemonade. Baobab offers a higher vitamin C content compared to oranges and contains probiotics for digestive health. Vendors sometimes include ginger or mint to improve the natural tartness. The powder readily dissolves in cold water. This makes it a convenient and nutritious option for those seeking authentic African flavors and health advantages.

7. Sugarcane Juice with Ginger and Lime

Sugarcane Juice with Ginger and Lime
© Lulu Hypermarket

Street vendors in India and Southeast Asia often prepare a refreshing beverage from sugarcane. The process involves crushing sugarcane stalks to extract the juice. This sweet liquid is then combined with fresh ginger and lime juice. This mixture provides a balance of sweetness, spicy warmth, and citrus. It is a source of instant energy and aids digestion. The ginger component contributes anti-inflammatory properties. The drink is typically served over crushed ice in plastic bags with straws. It is a suitable portable refreshment in warm climates.

8. Sea Buckthorn Berry Juice

Sea Buckthorn Berry Juice
@bitespeak.com

Mountain markets in Central Asia and Northern Europe offer sea buckthorn berry juice. This juice comes from small orange berries found on thorny shrubs. The juice’s tartness necessitates dilution with water and the addition of honey for palatability. These berries contain omega-7 fatty acids and high amounts of vitamin C. These components contribute to skin health and immunity. Preparing the juice requires care to achieve the correct balance. Vendors frequently serve it warm during colder months. They add spices like cinnamon to produce a comforting winter drink. Locals value this beverage.

9. Rice Water with Herbs

Rice Water with Herbs
@bitespeak.com

Asian markets feature fermented rice water beverages, a tradition spanning generations. Prepared by soaking cooked rice overnight, the resulting liquid is then mixed with herbs such as mint, basil, or lemongrass. This drink, rich in probiotics, supports digestion and offers B vitamins due to fermentation. The subtle, somewhat sour taste is enhanced by the addition of herbs. Prepared by elderly vendors using family recipes, this beverage is a refreshing choice, particularly during warm afternoons in bustling marketplaces.

10. Moringa Leaf and Cucumber Water

Moringa Leaf and Cucumber Water
@bitespeak.com

African and Indian markets blend fresh moringa leaves with cucumber to create a highly nutritious green drink. The moringa tree, known as the drumstick tree, provides leaves packed with vitamins, minerals, and protein. Cucumber adds hydration and mild flavor to balance the slightly bitter moringa leaves. This combination creates a refreshing drink that locals consume for its health benefits. Market vendors often prepare this drink fresh throughout the day, using a simple blender to combine the ingredients with ice water and a touch of lemon for enhanced taste and nutrition.