If you’ve ever thought your smoothie routine could use a little excitement, you’re in luck. We’ve scoured Reddit to find the most daring smoothie experiments from users who aren’t afraid to think outside the blender.
Ready to spice up your smoothies?
Here’s what Redditors are tossing into their blenders—and how it’s turning out.
1. Bean There, Blended That
At first glance, black beans in a smoothie might sound like a recipe for disaster. But hold that thought! One intrepid smoothie enthusiast on Reddit has been blending black beans with cocoa, peanut butter, and milk. The result? A surprisingly delicious concoction that’s now a staple in their smoothie rotation.
If you think beans are just for savory dishes, think again. Beans make a sweet appearance in various desserts around the world, from the Philippines’ halo-halo and Japan’s sweet red bean paste used in mochi and dorayaki to China’s red bean soup, Korea’s patbingsu, Vietnam’s che, and India’s mung bean pudding.
But black beans aren’t the only beans getting a smoothie makeover. Reddit users have also experimented with chickpeas and red beans. Chickpeas, known for their mild flavor and creamy texture, blend smoothly into smoothies, providing a subtle richness and a boost of protein. Red beans, on the other hand, offer a slightly sweet and hearty texture, making them another interesting addition.
So, next time you’re making a smoothie, don’t shy away from adding a variety of beans. Whether it’s black, chickpeas, or red, beans can enhance your smoothie with extra protein and a unique texture.
2. Avocado and Coconut Cream: A Reddit Favorite
For those who love a rich and creamy smoothie, avocado and coconut cream are a winning combination. This duo blends together to create a smooth, indulgent drink with a tropical flair. While many Reddit users rave about this creamy mix, taste is subjective—so this might be a hit or miss depending on your personal preference.
3. Frozen Cauliflower: Sneaky Veggie Alert
Frozen cauliflower is a surprising ingredient that some Reddit users swear by. It blends smoothly into smoothies, providing a creamy texture without overwhelming the flavor. It’s a clever way to sneak in some extra veggies, though it might not suit everyone’s taste. If you’re open to experimenting, frozen cauliflower could be a stealthy way to boost nutrition.
4. Raw Beets: A Colorful Experiment
Raw beets offer a vibrant twist to smoothies. One Redditor shared their beet-based blend with carrots and lemon juice, resulting in a visually stunning, earthy drink packed with nutrients. The earthy flavor might be a bit bold for some, but the health benefits and striking color make it an experiment worth trying for those who enjoy adventurous flavors.
5. Silken Tofu: Smooth and Creamy
Silken tofu is a popular choice among Reddit users looking to add a creamy texture and a protein boost to their smoothies. It blends smoothly, creating a rich, satisfying consistency. While some people love the silkiness tofu provides, others might find it less appealing. It’s a great option for those looking to enhance their smoothie with extra protein and creaminess.
6. Frozen Peas: The Creamy Surprise
Frozen peas might seem like an unconventional smoothie ingredient, but some Reddit users have found them to be a pleasant surprise. They add a creamy texture and a subtle sweetness that’s unexpectedly delightful. While this ingredient might not be for everyone, it offers a unique way to incorporate vegetables into your smoothie.
7. Rose Water: A Floral Twist
For a touch of sophistication, rose water has made its way into the smoothie world. One Reddit user gave it a try and reported, “Rose water. Pretty good, but remember, a little goes a LONG way.”
Rose water can impart a delicate floral note that elevates your smoothie, but it’s crucial to use it sparingly. Just a drop or two can provide a lovely hint of floral flavor without overpowering the rest of your ingredients.
8. Balsamic Vinegar: The Strawberry Enhancer
Quora users have a nifty trick for boosting the flavor of strawberries in smoothies: a dash of balsamic vinegar. According to one tip, adding just a little balsamic vinegar makes the strawberries taste even more strawberry-like.
This trick originally comes from a recipe for strawberry ice cream, where the balsamic vinegar enhances the natural flavor of the strawberries. It’s a clever way to amplify the fruitiness of your smoothie with minimal effort.
Reddit and Quora users are proving that there’s no limit to creativity in smoothie-making. From beans of all varieties to rose water and balsamic vinegar, these unconventional ingredients and clever tips offer new ways to enhance your smoothies with unique flavors and textures. Whether you’re experimenting with sweet and savory ingredients or looking to boost nutrition, these ideas might just inspire your next blend. Dive in and explore the possibilities—your taste buds might discover something unexpectedly delightful!
