Jugo de Perejil (Parsley juice) is a popular natural drink in Paraguay, known for its refreshing taste and health benefits.
Jump to
It's often enjoyed as a digestive aid, a hangover remedy, or simply as a refreshing, healthy juice.
It's made by blending parsley with water and straining it. Lemon juice and sweetener can be added to taste.
This jugo de perejil recipe is as easy as it can be-just blend fresh parsley with water.
This drink reminds me of my dad. I remember him preparing it when I was a kid-he'd blend fresh parsley with water and stir in a little sugar.
It was simple and refreshing. I make it all the time with lemon, but without the sugar, since I use it as the base for my tereré.
Ingredients You'll Need
- Fresh parsley: Main ingredient; supports digestion and detox. You can use curly or Italian parsley.
- Filtered water: Helps blend the parsley; adjust to taste.
- Lemon juice (optional): Adds brightness and boosts vitamin C. It can be substituted with lime.
- Unsulphured molasses or sugar (optional): Natural sweetener; omit if used for tereré.
See the recipe card for quantities.
How to Make Jugo de Perejil
Note: Full instructions are provided in the recipe card below.
1. Wash and chop the parsley, then blend it with water until smooth.
2. Strain into a pitcher, pressing out all the liquid.
3. Stir in lemon juice and molasses or sugar to taste, mixing until the mixture is fully dissolved.
4. Chill and serve over ice, if desired.
Hint: Adjust the amount of parsley, lemon, or sweetener to suit your taste. For a lighter flavor, simply add more water. This drink is very versatile and can be enjoyed sweetened or unsweetened-especially if you're using it for tereré.
Storage
Storage: This drink is best enjoyed fresh, right after preparing. However, if needed, you can store it in a sealed jar or pitcher in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Shake or stir before serving, as it may naturally settle.
Camila's Tips & Variations
- No sweetener? No problem: If you're using it for tereré, skip the molasses or sugar-just parsley, lemon, and water is refreshing on its own.
- Make it herbal: Add fresh mint to the blender for a traditional Paraguayan twist.
- Stronger or lighter: Use more parsley for a bolder flavor or more water for a milder taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use curly or flat-leaf parsley?
Yes! Both types work well. Flat-leaf (Italian) parsley has a slightly stronger flavor, while curly parsley is milder and more common in traditional versions.
Is molasses necessary, or can I use another sweetener?
You can use sugar, honey, or even skip the sweetener altogether-especially if you're drinking it with tereré.
Can I drink this while pregnant?
No, it's not recommended. Parsley juice in large amounts can cause uterine contractions. Always consult your doctor during pregnancy.
Want More Inspiration?
If you're curious about why parsley is such a powerful ingredient in this drink, you can learn more in this in-depth article: Parsley: Nutrition, Benefits, and Uses - Healthline.
Pair with
You may also like
Recipe
Jugo de Perejil (Parsley Juice)
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 bunch fresh Italian or curly parsley , washed and roughly chopped.
- 1-½ liters filtered water , adjusting based on how strong or light you prefer the flavor.
- Juice of 1 lemon or lime
- 50 ml unsulphured molasses or 50g sugar (to taste)
Instructions
- Wash the fresh parsley thoroughly and roughly chop it. Add it to a blender with water and blend until smooth.
- Strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a pitcher, pressing to extract as much liquid as possible.
- Stir in the juice of one lemon and add unsulphured molasses or sugar to taste, mixing until fully dissolved. Refrigerate until well chilled, and serve cold over ice if desired.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition Disclaimer: The nutritional information provided is an estimate, calculated using standard data sources. Actual values may vary based on ingredient brands, preparation methods, and portion sizes. This information is for general reference only and should not be considered a substitute for professional dietary advice.
