The Bloody Good Drink

This drink is bloody good (excuse my language)....but what I mean though is that it is especially beneficial if you are anaemic or feeling tired because prunes contain lots of iron and the orange juice will help absorb the iron from the prunes. Prunes also have high levels of fibre and have a laxative effect (which is good news if you are a bit constipated). Prunes are also packed full of essential minerals, contain an amazing amount of antioxidants and they are particularly beneficial to the skin. Our grannies were not kidding around with the prunes back in the old days!!! The drink is also especially good for pregnant women. Did you know that prunes are actually dried versions of European plums?


A good remedy for iron deficiency

This recipe is:

  • Egg free
  • Gluten free
  • Lactose (dairy) free
  • Nut free
  • Vegan

The Bloody Good Drink

Serves 1-2 people

Ingredients

  • 100 millilitres (3½ fluid oz) orange juice
  • 8 pitted prunes
  • 2 tablespoons soy yoghurt (or regular yoghurt)
  • 1 tablespoon agave nectar
  • A pinch of ground cinnamon (optional)
  • A couple of ice cubes

Preparation

  1. Place the ice cubes in a blender or food processor.
  2. Pour 50 millilitres (1½ fluid oz) of the orange juice on top of the ice cubes.
  3. Blend for 5 seconds.
  4. Add the 8 prunes to the blender along with the 1 tablespoon agave nectar, the 2 tablespoons soy yoghurt and the remaining 50 millilitres orange juice.
  5. Add more agave nectar if you prefer a sweeter smoothie.
  6. Blend for 30 seconds or until smooth.
  7. Serve immediately.
  8. Sprinkle each smoothie with a little ground cinnamon.

Tips

  • You can use maple syrup or acacia honey instead of the agave nectar.
  • You can add a handful of raisins and more orange juice if you prefer an even more iron rich smoothie.
  • Add more soy yoghurt for a thicker smoothie.
  • If you use regular yoghurt, note that dairy products decrease the absorption of iron.