Healthy Shots

BY ANUSHA MATHUR PHOTO BY DANIEL SHI

SHOTS? HEALTHY?

Not two words that are usually associated with each other. But, as juice bars continue to pop up across the nation, the wellness shot trend has only gained steam. These tiny drinks are a concentrated mixture of herbs and spices designed to provide health benefits, such as boosting drinkers’ immune system and metabolism. It is up for debate whether a few ounces of a juice blend can actually cure someone’s sleep deprivation or improve their digestion. But, ingredients like ginger, wheatgrass, and turmeric are rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and essential amino acids. Many have been used as medicinal herbs in non-western cultures for centuries. Here are my thoughts on the wellness shots from Pressed Juicery, a juice bar company with locations throughout the country. Some of them soothe your taste buds while others have quite a kick, so brace yourself…

Elderberry (honey, elderberry, lemon, cinnamon, cloves) - Birds are singing and churchbells are ringing because I am in LOVE! This shot is bold, but refreshing. While elderberry is typically tart, this drink tastes more malty, like black-tea. It feels like an homage to curling up by the fire on a cold, rainy evening. The combination of the earthy cinnamon and elderberry is striking. But, ultimately, the sweet honey steals the show with its thick, yet even texture.

Wellness (Ginger, Lemon, Cayenne) - This is hailed as the classic health shot. Ginger has powerful antioxdants, lemon is an excellent source of Vitamin C, and cayenne speeds up your metabolism. I am always shocked by the flavor intensity. Although the lemon helps the drink down, the cayenne and ginger burn and tickle the back of your throat, lingering in your mouth after you swallow.

Tart cherry (red tart cherries) - In an age where most wellness shots strive for complexity and seek to combine ingredients, this shot provides much needed simplicity. But don’t be so quick to judge. This drink isn’t 20 cherries tossed in a blender. The rich, juicy cherries calm the palette while the sweet and sticky flavor lingers on your lips, leaving you wanting more.

Vitality (coconut water, turmeric, lemon, and black pepper) - If you’re drawn to bold and earthy flavors, then this drink is for you. The turmeric is the star of the show, but doesn’t kick you in the gut. The coconut water brings a nutty sweetness while the hint of black pepper adds a woody flavor. Close your eyes to experience the complex subtlety of the flavors; you won’t want to miss them.

Probiotic (apple, red cabbage, lemon, ginger, and probiotic) - Many foodies are adamant that green things have no place in drinks. If you belong to that camp, this shot may be a good introduction for you. The ginger and tart lemon take a backseat, but add a necessary counterbalance to the apple’s dominating sweetness. Best of all, you get the health benefits of cabbage, including antioxidants and vitamins, without having to taste it!