Ah, watermelon—nature’s candy, right? It’s like biting into a slice of summer itself, with all its juicy, messy, delightful goodness. So, what better way to cool off on a scorching day than with a refreshing glass of watermelon agua fresca?
It’s like a sweet, hydrating hug from the inside out. And honestly, who doesn’t want that?
Steps
- Combine the cubed watermelon and water in a blender and blend until the mixture is smooth. Taste and add sugar if desired, blending again to ensure it is well incorporated.
- Cut each lime slice in half, and place one half into each of the eight glasses. Add three mint leaves to each glass, then use a cocktail muddler to gently crush the lime and mint to release their juices.
- Fill each glass with about one cup of ice, then pour the watermelon mixture over the ice. Stir the drink gently before serving to ensure an even distribution of flavors.
Ingredients
- 4 cups cubed, seeded watermelon
- ½ cup water
- ½ cup white sugar (or adjust to taste)
- 4 slices lime
- 24 fresh mint leaves
- 8 cups ice (or as needed)
Nutritional Values
Calories: 576 | Total Fat: 0g | Sodium: 8mg | Total Carbohydrate: 152g | Dietary Fiber: 0g | Total Sugars: 136g | Protein: 8g | Vitamin C: 56mg | Calcium: 64mg | Iron: 0mg | Potassium: 720mg
FAQ
- What is Agua Fresca?
- Agua fresca is a refreshing beverage commonly served in Mexico. It’s typically made with fresh fruit, water, and a bit of sugar, offering a hydrating and fruity drink perfect for hot weather.
- Can I adjust the sweetness of the Watermelon Agua Fresca?
- Yes, you can easily adjust the sweetness to your preference. Start by adding the suggested amount of sugar, and then taste. If you prefer a less sweet drink, reduce the sugar, or if your watermelon is naturally very sweet, you can omit it altogether.
- Is it necessary to have a cocktail muddler for this recipe?
- No, a cocktail muddler is not essential. If you don’t have one, you can simply add the mint leaves to the blender with the watermelon or crush them using any kitchen tool that can help release the juices.
- Can I make this drink ahead of time?
- It’s best to prepare Watermelon Agua Fresca fresh to enjoy its vibrant flavors. However, you can blend the watermelon and water in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Add mint, lime, and ice just before serving for the freshest taste.
- Are there any variations to this recipe?
- Absolutely! You can experiment by adding other fruits like strawberries or using flavored waters. Additionally, if you have access to Li hing mui powder, you can rim the glasses with it for an extra burst of flavor.
Tips
- If you don’t have a cocktail muddler, try adding the mint leaves directly to the blender along with the lime juice. This can help infuse the flavors more thoroughly throughout the drink.
- Adjust the sugar to your taste or skip it entirely if your watermelon is sweet enough. This not only reduces the calorie content but also lets the natural sweetness of the fruit shine.
- For a smoother texture, consider straining the blended mixture to remove any pulp before serving. This can enhance the drinking experience, especially for those who prefer a pulp-free beverage.
- Experiment with garnishing the glass rims with Li hing mui powder if available, as it adds an interesting twist and complements the fruity flavors well.
Equipment
- Blender
- Cocktail muddler