Strawberry Agua Fresca
When I was looking for recipes for our Mexican Fiesta we were organising recently I came across these very cool drinks. It is water flavoured with fresh fruit, a little sugar and citrus juice.
'Agua Fresca' actually means fresh water in Spanish. And as I had sorted out the adult drinks, I thought I would fancy up the kids drinks.
I used sparkling water in my drink, to give the soft drink feel, but you could just as easily use fresh water. I also served it in a punch bowl and just doubled the recipe. Sparkling water fizzes up when added, but it goes down and tastes amazing.
My lovely Mexican friend said to me at the party that this is what they have as fruit juice in Mexico. Now I can actually say this is what I would serve at my parties from now on, as this is far superior to any store bought juice or soft drink I have ever bought.
The amount of sugar depends on the ripeness of the fruit, so try and choose ripe fruit, so you can use less sugar. Also the amount of water is up to you also. Start sampling after 4 cups, and keep adding water until it just right for you.
This is the perfect summer drink. My kids loved it, I loved it, give it a go. And for adults, you can always a little vodka or tequila.
'Agua Fresca' actually means fresh water in Spanish. And as I had sorted out the adult drinks, I thought I would fancy up the kids drinks.
I used sparkling water in my drink, to give the soft drink feel, but you could just as easily use fresh water. I also served it in a punch bowl and just doubled the recipe. Sparkling water fizzes up when added, but it goes down and tastes amazing.
My lovely Mexican friend said to me at the party that this is what they have as fruit juice in Mexico. Now I can actually say this is what I would serve at my parties from now on, as this is far superior to any store bought juice or soft drink I have ever bought.
The amount of sugar depends on the ripeness of the fruit, so try and choose ripe fruit, so you can use less sugar. Also the amount of water is up to you also. Start sampling after 4 cups, and keep adding water until it just right for you.
This is the perfect summer drink. My kids loved it, I loved it, give it a go. And for adults, you can always a little vodka or tequila.
Recipe
Recipe adapted from www.allrecipes.com
Serves 10
4 cups strawberries, sliced (I use 4 x 250g punnets)
3/4-1 cup white sugar
8 cups cold water (can be mineral water)
1 lime, sliced
8 fresh mint sprigs, optional
Serves 10
4 cups strawberries, sliced (I use 4 x 250g punnets)
3/4-1 cup white sugar
8 cups cold water (can be mineral water)
1 lime, sliced
8 fresh mint sprigs, optional
In a medium bowl add the strawberries, sugar and 1 cup of water. Give it a stir, cover with cling film. Refrigerate for 4 hours.
After 4 hours place the strawberry mixture, including any liquid, into a blender and blitz until smooth. Through a fine mesh sieve, strain the strawberry juice into a large measuring jug (or bowl), discard seeds and pulp.
Add the remaining 7 cups of water (or mineral water) to the strawberry juice, mix well. Place in the refrigerator to chill for several hours. Just before serving add the lime slices and ice cubes (so it is super cold) and serve immediately.
Garnish with mint leaves if desired.
Garnish with mint leaves if desired.
Enjoy!
