📝 About This Recipe
Born in the vibrant markets of Mexico, Aguas Frescas are the ultimate celebration of seasonal fruit and pure hydration. This recipe balances the honey-like sweetness of ripe watermelon with the zesty brightness of fresh lime and a whisper of cooling mint. It is a light, non-alcoholic infusion that captures the essence of summer in every chilled sip.
🥗 Ingredients
The Fruit Base
- 6 cups Watermelon (seedless, cubed and chilled)
- 4 cups Cold Water (divided)
- 1/2 cup Fresh Lime Juice (from about 4-5 juicy limes)
Sweetener and Aromatics
- 3-4 tablespoons Agave Nectar (adjust to the sweetness of the fruit)
- 1/4 cup Fresh Mint Leaves (lightly bruised to release oils)
- 1 pinch Sea Salt (to enhance the fruit flavors)
Garnish and Service
- 2 cups Ice Cubes (for serving)
- 6 pieces Lime Slices (thinly sliced rounds)
- 6 pieces Small Watermelon Wedges (with rind on for decoration)
- 6 pieces Fresh Mint Sprigs (for a fragrant finish)
👨🍳 Instructions
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1
Prepare your fruit by dicing the seedless watermelon into 1-inch cubes, ensuring you remove any stray black seeds to maintain a smooth texture.
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2
Place half of the watermelon cubes into a high-speed blender along with 2 cups of the cold water.
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3
Blend on high for 45-60 seconds until the mixture is completely liquefied and frothy.
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4
Set a fine-mesh sieve over a large glass pitcher and pour the blended watermelon through it to remove any excess pulp or fiber; use a spoon to press the solids.
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5
Repeat the blending and straining process with the remaining watermelon cubes and the other 2 cups of water.
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6
Whisk in the fresh lime juice and the pinch of sea salt, which helps to brighten the melon's natural sugars.
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7
Add the agave nectar one tablespoon at a time, tasting as you go, until the sweetness level is to your liking.
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8
Take the 1/4 cup of mint leaves and gently clap them between your hands to bruise them, then drop them into the pitcher.
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9
Stir the mixture vigorously with a long-handled spoon to ensure all ingredients are fully integrated.
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10
Place the pitcher in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the mint to infuse and the flavors to marry.
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11
Just before serving, give the beverage a final stir as the fruit particles may settle at the bottom.
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12
Fill tall glasses with ice cubes and pour the Agua Fresca over the ice, leaving an inch at the top.
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13
Garnish each glass with a lime wheel, a fresh mint sprig, and a small watermelon wedge on the rim for a professional presentation.
💡 Chef's Tips
Use the ripest fruit possible; if your watermelon is heavy for its size and has a yellow 'field spot,' it will be naturally sweeter. Avoid blending the mint directly into the drink if you want a clear infusion; bruising and steeping provides a cleaner flavor. If you prefer a thicker, more 'smoothie-like' drink, skip the straining step entirely. You can substitute agave with honey or a simple syrup made of equal parts sugar and water. Always chill your water and fruit beforehand to ensure the drink is refreshing without needing too much ice, which can dilute the flavor.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Pair with spicy street tacos or ceviche to balance the heat with cooling sweetness. Serve in a large glass dispenser for garden parties or summer barbecues. For an adult twist, add a splash of silver tequila or light rum to individual glasses. Accompany with a side of tajín-sprinkled mango slices for a truly authentic Mexican snack experience. Serve alongside salty appetizers like chips and fresh guacamole.