How do you use mason jars for juice?
Mason jars have become increasingly popular for storing and drinking homemade juices. Their versatility, affordability, and vintage charm make them a favorite choice for juicing enthusiasts. Using mason jars for juice allows you to make juices in bulk while keeping them fresh and delicious. In this article, we’ll go over everything you need to know about using mason jars for your homemade juices.
Benefits of Using Mason Jars for Juice
There are many benefits to using mason jars for juice:
- Airtight seal – The lid creates an airtight seal which keeps oxygen out and freshness in.
- Versatile sizes – Mason jars come in a variety of sizes perfect for single servings or batch juicing.
- Durable – Mason jars are made from heat-tempered glass making them durable and reuseable.
- Affordable – Mason jars are an budget-friendly option compared to other storage containers.
- Easy to clean – Mason jars are simple to wash by hand or in the dishwasher.
- Vintage appeal – The classic look of mason jars adds charm and character.
- Customizable – You can decorate mason jars with paint, twine, accessories, etc.
- Multi-purpose – Mason jars can also be used for food prep and storage when not being used for juice.
Choosing the Right Size Mason Jar
Mason jars come in a range of sizes from 4 oz to 128 oz. Choosing the right size will depend on your juicing habits and needs:
| Jar Size | Best Use |
|---|---|
| 4 oz | Single serving juices, juice shots |
| 8 oz | Single serving juices, parfaits |
| 16 oz | Larger single servings, meal-sized juices |
| 32 oz | Family-sized juices, batch juicing |
| 64 oz | Large batch juicing, juice cleanses |
| 128 oz | Juice bars, commercial juicing |
The most common sizes for homemade juices are 16 oz and 32 oz. The 16 oz jar is a good personal serving while the 32 oz is ideal for making juice for the whole family or to have plenty to last a few days. The larger 64 oz and 128 oz sizes are best for heavy juicing needs.
How to Juice Directly into Mason Jars
Juicing directly into mason jars is simple and eliminates the extra step of having to transfer juice from one container to another. Here is the process:
- Select your mason jar(s) and lids.
- Wash thoroughly with soap and hot water before use.
- Assemble your juicer according to its instructions with the spout lined up over the mouth of the mason jar.
- Prep your fruits and vegetables for juicing.
- Turn on the juicer and begin adding produce down the juicer chute.
- Juice will dispense from the spout directly into the mason jar.
- Leave at least 1 inch of headspace from the top of the jar.
- Once jar is filled to 1 inch from top, turn off juicer.
- Wipe rim of jar then place lid on top and screw band on tightly.
- Store sealed mason jar of juice in the refrigerator.
This method allows you to capture juice straight from the juicer with no mess or waste. Be sure not to overfill the jars, as you need a little room for expansion as juice chills in the refrigerator.
How to Store Juice in Mason Jars
Proper storage is key to keeping your homemade juices fresh for longer. Here are some tips for storing juice in mason jars:
- Fill jar leaving 1 inch headspace – Don’t overfill the jar, leave a little room at the top for expansion.
- Seal lid tightly – Ensure the two-part lid is tightly sealed to prevent air getting in.
- Refrigerate immediately – Once jar is filled and sealed, refrigerate right away.
- Use within 3-5 days – For best quality and nutrition, drink juice within 3-5 days of juicing.
- Minimize exposure to air and light – Store jar in the back of the fridge and away from light to prevent oxidation.
- Clean jar properly – Wash jar, lid and rim thoroughly before reusing for juice again.
With proper filling, sealing, and refrigeration, mason jars can keep juice tasting great for 3-5 days. Some signs your juice has expired include changes in consistency, color, smell or taste.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Mason Jar Juice
Follow these helpful tips to maximize the juicing experience when using mason jars:
- Juice softer produce like leafy greens first then harder items like carrots and apples last.
- Alternate colors by juicing something green then something orange to create a rainbow effect.
- Juice in order from most delicate to most robust produce to optimize nutrients.
- Make juice combinations in batches then divide into multiple jars for grab-and-go convenience.
- Label your jars with contents and juicing date using masking tape and marker.
- Freeze extra juice in jars to have on hand for up to 6 months.
- Start your day by drinking a mason jar of juice straight from the fridge.
- Give jarred juices as gifts by dressing up jars with ribbon, fabric, flowers or other embellishments.
Getting creative with mason jar juicing can make it even more fun and rewarding. Don’t be afraid to experiment with combinations and find favorite recipes that work for you.
Common Juice Combinations for Mason Jars
Mason jars are the perfect vessel for trying out all kinds of healthy, hydrating juice blends. Here are some tasty combinations to try:
| Juice Name | Ingredients |
|---|---|
| Classic Green | Celery, kale, cucumber, spinach, parsley, lemon |
| Fruit Fusion | Strawberries, blueberries, apple, orange, pineapple |
| Carrot Apple Ginger | Carrots, apple, ginger |
| Beet Berry | Beets, blackberries, raspberries |
| Tropical Turmeric | Pineapple, mango, turmeric, lemon |
| Green Lemonade | Kale, spinach, cucumber, lemon, apple, mint |
| Grapefruit Cucumber | Ruby red grapefruit, cucumber, mint |
The options for tasty juice blends are endless! Mix and match your favorite fruits and veggies to create perfect jarred juices.
Troubleshooting Common Mason Jar Juicing Problems
While mason jars make juicing a breeze, you may encounter some hiccups. Here are solutions to common mason jar juicing issues:
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Jars leaking | Ensure lid is sealed tightly and band is screwed on all the way |
| Juice spoiling quickly | Drink juice within 3-5 days and store in back of refrigerator |
| Juice separation | Shake or stir juice before drinking to recombine |
| Mason jars breaking | Avoid any sudden temperature changes and handle carefully |
| Pulp build up in juicer | Stop juicer periodically and scoop out excess pulp in basket |
| Low juice yield | Ensure produce is fresh, ripe, and well prepped before juicing |
| Juice overflow from jar | Turn off juicer before jar is completely full to allow for expansion |
With some trial and error, you’ll get the hang of using mason jars for juicing. The benefits definitely make it worth learning the ropes.
FAQs About Mason Jar Juicing
Should you fill mason jars all the way for juice?
No, you should leave at least 1 inch of empty headspace between the juice and the top of the jar. This allows room for the juice to expand as it chills in the refrigerator.
How long does juice last in a mason jar?
Juice stored properly in a sealed mason jar will typically last 3-5 days in the refrigerator. Be sure to drink the juice within this timeline for best flavor, color, and nutritional value.
Can you freeze juice in mason jars?
Yes, you can safely freeze juice in mason jars for longer term storage. Leave headspace at the top, seal tightly, and freeze for up to 6 months. Allow to thaw overnight in the fridge before drinking.
What size mason jar is best for juicing?
The 32 oz wide mouth mason jar is a great all-purpose size for most homemade juicing needs. It has plenty of room for juicing large batches but can also accommodate smaller portion sizes.
Can you put hot liquids in mason jars?
No, you should let juice cool to room temperature before pouring into a mason jar. Putting extremely hot liquids directly into a jar could cause it to break or crack due to sudden temperature change.
Do you have to refrigerate juice in mason jars?
Yes, it is important to refrigerate juice in mason jars right after juicing to prevent bacteria growth and spoilage. The cold environment keeps juice fresh longer.
Conclusion
With their vintage appeal, versatility, and functionality, it’s easy to see why mason jars have become a juicer’s best friend. Using mason jars for homemade juices allows you to quickly make nutrient-packed drinks that will stay fresh for days. Follow the proper juicing, storage, and troubleshooting tips outlined to get the most out of juicing into mason jars. With some creativity and the right produce combinations, you’ll enjoy healthy, delicious jarred juices all week long.