Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 ripe cantaloupe, peeled and seeded
- 4 cups of water
- 1/2 cup of sugar
- 1/4 cup of lime juice
- Ice cubes
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Special equipment needed:
- Blender
- Fine mesh strainer
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Cut the cantaloupe into small pieces and put them in a blender.
2. Add 2 cups of water to the blender and blend until smooth.
3. Pour the mixture through a fine mesh strainer into a pitcher.
4. Add the remaining 2 cups of water, sugar, and lime juice to the pitcher and stir until the sugar dissolves.
5. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
6. Serve the cantaloupe agua fresca over ice cubes and garnish with fresh mint leaves.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Temperature:
Serve chilled.
Serving size:
Makes 4 servings.
Nutritional information:
Calories: 120
Total Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 10mg
Total Carbohydrate: 31g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 29g
Protein: 1g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Honey or agave nectar can be used instead of sugar.
- Lemon juice can be used instead of lime juice.
Variations:
- Add a splash of tequila or rum for an adult version.
- Use other types of melons such as honeydew or watermelon.
Tips and tricks:
- Use a ripe cantaloupe for the best flavor.
- Adjust the amount of sugar to your taste preference.
- For a smoother texture, blend the cantaloupe with all 4 cups of water and skip the straining step.
Storage instructions:
- Store any leftover cantaloupe agua fresca in a covered pitcher in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Cantaloupe agua fresca is best served chilled and does not need to be reheated.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve in a clear glass to show off the vibrant orange color.
- Garnish with a slice of cantaloupe or lime.
Garnishes:
- Fresh mint leaves
- Slices of cantaloupe or lime
Pairings:
- Serve with spicy Mexican food for a refreshing contrast.
Suggested side dishes:
- Chips and salsa
- Guacamole
- Quesadillas
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the agua fresca is too sweet, add more lime juice to balance the flavors.
- If the agua fresca is too thick, add more water to thin it out.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash the cantaloupe thoroughly before peeling and cutting.
Food history:
- Agua fresca is a traditional Mexican drink made with fresh fruit, water, and sugar.
Flavor profiles:
- Sweet and refreshing with a hint of tanginess from the lime juice.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve in a pitcher for a family-style drink or in individual glasses for a party.
Related Categories
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Region: Mexican
Taste: Refreshing, Fruity, Sweet, Tangy, Citrusy