Place the baobab pulp in a bowl and cover it with water. Stir a few times so all the pieces are submerged. Set aside and let it soak until the pulp softens and starts to break down, about 2 hours, depending on room temperature. Do the same if you're using already processed baobab fruit powder. The water may turn slightly orange or reddish - this is normal and comes from the seed fibers.
Once softened, use clean hands to gently squeeze the pulp. This helps release the juice and separate it from the seeds and fibers.
Strain the mixture through a fine strainer or clean kitchen towel, pressing firmly to extract as much liquid as possible. Don’t discard the solids too quickly; push any remaining pulp through the strainer with a spoon. If needed, strain the juice once more for a smoother result. Save the seeds for baobab coffee.
Sweeten the juice to taste with sugar or a preferred sweetener, stirring until fully dissolved.
Add the coconut milk and stir well. For a natural boost of flavor and creaminess, add a small banana and blend until smooth. If you plan to store the juice longer, a little lemon juice helps keep it fresh.
Optionally, if you like it more creamy, blend in a banana using a blender or food processor.
Transfer the juice to a bottle or glass and chill in the refrigerator. Serve cold. Enjoy!
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NOTES
USEFUL TIPS
Buy baobab pulp from reliable sellers, and choose organic when possible.
Coconut milk can be swapped for condensed milk or powdered milk. Lemon juice won’t affect condensed milk, but use powdered milk carefully, as it can react differently with acidic ingredients.
Baobab juice has a naturally tangy flavor and blends well with other juices. Pineapple, orange, mango, apple, and ginger pair great with baobab.
You can turn the juice into a smoothie by blending it with fruits like orange or mango and adding a bit of fresh ginger for extra warmth.
The same base works well for frozen treats. It can be made into sorbet, popsicles, or even ice cream by adding whipping cream or heavy cream before freezing.
Freezing the juice into ice cubes is always a good idea. Drop a few cubes into cold drinks for a refreshing boost.
Baobab pulp is also easy to use without making juice. Stir a few spoonfuls into yogurt, oatmeal, pudding, tea, coffee, or fruit sauces, or use it in healthy desserts like baobab bars, bites, or cookies.
Baobab seeds don’t need to go to waste. Once dried and roasted, they can be brewed into baobab coffee. The leftover seeds can even be burned as a natural mosquito repellent.
STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS
Dry baobab pulp keeps very well when stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Stored properly, it can last for 2–3 years.
Prepared baobab juice can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Store it in a closed bottle or jar, and add fresh fruit like bananas just before serving.
Freezing is also an option. The juice can be frozen for 8–12 months, the easiest way to freeze it is using plastic bottles.
For long-term storage, baobab juice can be gently heated to 80°C (176°F), poured into sterilized bottles, sealed, and stored safely for up to 1 year.