If you’ve fallen for the bright, tangy Purple Haze at First Watch, you’re not alone. This copycat version brings that same vibrant color and zesty flavor to your kitchen with simple, fresh ingredients. It’s lightly sweet, a little earthy, and super refreshing—perfect for morning pick‑me‑ups or afternoon sips.
No fancy gear required beyond a blender and a strainer. Make it once, and you’ll want a pitcher in your fridge all week.
What Makes This Recipe So Good
- Balanced flavor: Sweet citrus meets gentle beet earthiness, all smoothed out with honey and a splash of water.
- Vibrant color: The deep magenta hue looks as good as it tastes—great for brunch or entertaining.
- Simple ingredients: You’ll find everything at a regular grocery store. No powdered mixes or hard‑to‑find add‑ins.
- Customizable: Adjust sweetness, tartness, and beet intensity to match your taste.
- Naturally energizing: Fresh citrus and beets deliver a clean, refreshing boost without caffeine.
Ingredients
- 1 small raw beet, peeled and diced (about 3 ounces)
- 1 cup cold water, plus more as needed
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 large orange)
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
- 1 tablespoon honey or agave (more to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional but recommended)
- Ice, for serving
- Orange or lemon slices, for garnish (optional)
How to Make It
- Prep the beet: Peel and dice the beet into small cubes.Smaller pieces blend smoother and faster.
- Blend the base: Add beet, cold water, and ginger to a blender. Blend on high until completely smooth and richly colored, about 45–60 seconds.
- Strain for a smooth sip: Pour the beet mixture through a fine‑mesh strainer into a pitcher or bowl. Press with a spoon to extract as much liquid as possible.Discard the pulp (or save it for smoothies).
- Add citrus and sweetness: Stir in the fresh orange juice, lemon juice, and honey or agave. Mix until the sweetener dissolves. Taste and adjust—add more honey for sweetness, more lemon for tang, or a splash of water to mellow it.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 20–30 minutes to let flavors meld and the drink cool completely.
- Serve: Fill glasses with ice, pour in the Purple Haze, and garnish with a citrus slice if you’re feeling fancy.
Keeping It Fresh
- Storage: Keep the drink in a sealed jar or pitcher in the fridge for up to 3 days.Stir before pouring—natural separation is normal.
- Make‑ahead tip: Juice the citrus and prep the beet concentrate a day early. Combine right before serving for the brightest flavor.
- Freezing: Pour leftovers into ice cube trays. Use the cubes to chill future batches without diluting.
Health Benefits
- Beets: Naturally rich in nitrates, which may support healthy blood flow and endurance.They also bring fiber, folate, and antioxidants.
- Citrus: Orange and lemon juice provide vitamin C, which supports immunity and helps your body absorb iron from plants.
- Ginger: Offers a gentle zing and may soothe digestion.
- Lower‑sugar option: With a light touch of honey or agave, it’s sweet but not syrupy. You control how much goes in.
Pitfalls to Watch Out For
- Skipping the strain: Unstrained beet pulp can make the drink gritty. Take the extra minute to strain.
- Overdoing the beet: Too much beet can overpower the citrus and taste muddy.Stick to the amount listed, then adjust slowly.
- Warm ingredients: Blending with room‑temperature water and adding citrus right away can taste flat. Use cold water and chill before serving.
- Too much sweetener: Start small. You can always add more, but you can’t take it out.
Variations You Can Try
- Berry boost: Blend 1/4 cup frozen blueberries or blackberries with the beet for a deeper purple and berry notes.
- Sparkling twist: Top each glass with 2–3 ounces of chilled sparkling water for bubbles.Add just before serving.
- Herbal lift: Muddle fresh mint or basil in the glass, then pour the drink over it.
- Lower sugar: Swap honey for a few drops of liquid stevia or monk fruit, adjusting to taste.
- Extra zing: Add 1–2 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar for a sharper, kombucha‑like vibe.
- Creamy smoothie: Blend the unstrained mix with a banana and extra ice for a breakfast smoothie.
FAQ
Do I have to use a raw beet?
Raw beets give the cleanest, brightest flavor and color. You can use cooked beets in a pinch, but the drink will be a little sweeter and softer in flavor. If using cooked, start with slightly less and add to taste.
Can I juice instead of blend?
Yes.
If you have a juicer, juice 1 small beet, 1 orange, and 1 lemon, then dilute with cold water to taste and add sweetener. It will be ultra smooth and fast.
What if I don’t like ginger?
Leave it out. For a gentle kick without ginger’s flavor, add a tiny pinch of cayenne or a few slices of fresh turmeric.
Is there a way to make it without honey?
Absolutely.
Use agave, maple syrup, or a zero‑calorie liquid sweetener. Adjust drop by drop until it tastes balanced.
How do I scale this for a crowd?
Double or triple everything and mix in a large pitcher. Keep it chilled and add ice to individual glasses so you don’t water down the batch.
Why did my drink separate in the fridge?
Natural juices separate as they sit.
Just give it a quick stir or shake before pouring. The flavor stays the same.
In Conclusion
This First Watch Purple Haze Drink Copycat hits that sweet spot between refreshing and feel‑good. With beets, citrus, and a touch of honey, it’s bright, balanced, and easy to make at home.
Keep a batch chilled for quick sips, or dress it up with bubbles and herbs for brunch. Once you nail your perfect balance of sweet and tart, it’ll become a regular in your rotation. Cheers to a colorful glass you’ll actually crave.
