If you grew up in Sri Lanka, chances are you’ve had a glass of wood apple juice. It’s one of those nostalgic drinks that instantly brings back childhood memories. With its unique tangy flavor, creamy texture, and tropical goodness, wood apple juice is the kind of refreshment that makes you feel like you’re sipping pure island sunshine.
Whether you enjoy it as a cooling afternoon drink or a sweet treat after a meal, this easy wood apple juice recipe is guaranteed to hit the spot!
What is Wood Apple?
Wood apple (also called Limonia acidissima) is a round fruit with a hard shell and a fragrant, tangy pulp inside. It’s popular across South Asia, especially in Sri Lanka and India. The flavor is often described as a mix of tamarind, banana, and citrus — all packed into one fruit.
While the raw pulp is quite tart, when blended with sugar and coconut milk, it transforms into a rich, creamy, and refreshing juice that’s absolutely irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 3 small wood apples (pulp scooped out)
- ½ cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 cup coconut milk or water (for a lighter version)
How to Make Wood Apple Juice
- Crack open the wood apples and scoop out the pulp into a bowl.
- Add the pulp, sugar, salt, and 1 cup coconut milk (or water) into a blender. Blend until smooth.
- Add a little extra coconut milk into a serving glass, then pour the blended mixture over it. Stir gently.
- Serve cold for the most refreshing taste. You can also add ice cubes for an extra cool twist!
Tips for the Perfect Wood Apple Juice
- Wood apples can be naturally tangy, so tweak the sugar to your liking.
- Coconut milk makes the juice creamy and rich, while water keeps it light and refreshing.
- Add a squeeze of lime for brightness or a pinch of cardamom for a spiced twist.
- Wood apple juice tastes best when cold, especially on a hot day.
Final Thoughts
This Sri Lankan wood apple juice recipe is proof that simple ingredients can create something extraordinary. Creamy, sweet, tangy, and wonderfully refreshing — it’s a drink that truly captures the tropical flavors of Sri Lanka.
Next time you spot wood apples at the market, don’t pass them by. Grab a few, whip up this juice, and enjoy a glass of island bliss at home!