Smoothies are blended drinks that are typically made with fruit. These beverages are often consumed as a snack or as a meal replacement. A homemade smoothie can be made with a blender, fruit, and a liquid base, such as juice, milk, or yogurt. While ice can be used, many people prefer to use frozen fruit to prevent the ice from watering down their drinks. Flavor extracts, such as vanilla or coconut, can also be used to add flavor, and protein can be added to a smoothie to make it more filling.
A homemade smoothie can be made with a variety of fruits, including bananas, berries, and melons. The drink may be made with just one type of fruit, or different fruits can be combined according to a person's taste. For best results, it is recommended that frozen fruit is used when making a homemade smoothie. This can give the drink a thicker consistency without having to use ice, which can make the drink taste watered down after it is blended.
In addition to fruit, a liquid base should be used to give a smoothie flavor and a drinkable consistency. Many types of bases can be used, such as milk, yogurt, or fruit juice. The consistency of yogurt usually gives a smoothie a good texture, while also providing calcium and probiotic elements. Fruit juices also work well in a smoothie, but some people may choose to avoid juices because they add extra sugar to the drink. Milk blends well in a smoothie, and cow's milk, soy milk, coconut milk, and rice or almond milk can all be used.
Natural extracts can add extra flavor to a homemade smoothie. Popular smoothie recipes may suggest adding vanilla, coconut, or almond extracts to the drink. These are generally in a liquid form, and only a small amount of the ingredient is usually required to give the drink a hint of the desired flavor. Additional items, such as protein powder or other supplements, can also be blended into a smoothie to give it additional nutritional value.
When making a homemade smoothie, a blender should be used. For the best mixing, the base should be added first, followed by the fruit, and then any other ingredients included in the recipe. When blending the drink, the lowest blending power level should be used until the ingredients begin to incorporate. The power level can then be increased until the smoothie is mixed and ready to drink.