Mexican Agua fresca

Agua Frescas are fresh fruit drinks that are very popular throughout Mexico.

You will find these drinks at street stands all over Mexico and also at restaurants. They are usually served from large barrel-shaped glass containers (vitroleros).

These delicious fruit drinks are a lot like sorbets, as they freshen the palate and they provide a perfect balance to the spiciness of Mexican foods.

This refreshing and delicious Mexican fruit water is basically fresh fruit sweet water, and it's very refreshing to drink during hot summer months. Agua Frescas are easy to make and can be made with just about any fruit. They are natural, healthy, and are inexpensive when made with seasonal fruit.

Below you see a basic Pineapple recipe, and some other flavor ideas, but remember that you can also mix flavors and add additional flavors to it as mint, herbs, etc.

Flavor Ideas:

Agua de Melon - Use cantaloupe or any other melon

Agua de Sandia - Use watermelon

Agua de Fresa - Use strawberries

Agua de Papaya - Use papaya with the addition of some lime juice

Agua Fresca de Pepino - Use peeled, and seeded cucumbers with the addition of lime juice.

Mexican Pineapple Agua Fresca:

Yields: makes a large pitcher Prep time: 15 min

Smell the pineapple when purchasing. You should pick up a sweet flavor. The stronger the smell, the riper the fruit.

It is hard to give precise measurements on this recipe, because the size of fruit and ripeness of each pineapple varies. The amount of sugar needed will vary depending on the sweetness of the fruit, and also your taste. Sugar substitutes may also be used if desired. So - taste your pineapple before adding sugar!

Ingredients:

1 ripe fresh pineapple 1 to 2 cups granulated sugar (or to taste), divided 8 to 10 cups water Ice cubes

Preparation:

With a sharp knife, cut off ends of the pineapple. Quarter and then cut into eights. Cut off the outside or skin of the pineapple. Then cut the pineapple pieces into cubes.

Add the remaining water to your pitcher and mix well. Taste and adjust sugar if more is needed. Also add additional water if needed.

Chill in the refrigerator for several hours before serving. Serve over ice.

Enjoy!