Agua fresca

Agua fresca is a very popular traditional beverage in several Latin American countries, especially in Mexico. It is prepared by mixing plain water with fresh fruits, flowers, seeds, or herbs, lightly sweetened with sugar or honey, and served cold. It is a refreshing and light option, ideal to accompany any meal or to enjoy on hot days.

The origin of agua fresca dates back to ancient Mesoamerican cultures, where natural and accessible ingredients were used to create hydrating drinks. Currently, agua fresca has spread throughout Latin America, adapting to local ingredients.

Properties: In addition to its hydrating function, agua fresca provides the nutrients and vitamins inherent to the fruits or plants used (such as vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber in some recipes), always with very few calories if sugar is moderated. Being a beverage based primarily on water, it helps maintain good hydration in a natural and healthy way.

In different Spanish-speaking countries, agua fresca can have various synonyms or related names, although the term "agua fresca" is the most widespread. In some regions, they are known as refrescos naturales (natural soft drinks), aguas de fruta (fruit waters), or simply aguas (waters). In countries like Colombia or Venezuela, "jugos naturales" (natural juices) is sometimes used to refer to similar beverages prepared with water and fruit, differentiating them from pure squeezed juice.