Mango Agua Fresca: A Refreshing Summer Drink
Mango Agua Fresca: A Refreshing Summer Drink
Mango Agua Fresca is a light, vibrant, and refreshing Mexican beverage made with ripe mangoes, water, and a dash of lime juice. This naturally sweet drink is perfect for hot summer days, offering a healthy and hydrating alternative to sugary sodas. Quick to prepare and customizable to your taste, it’s sure to be a hit at your next BBQ, family gathering, or simply as a refreshing treat after a long day.
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4
Ingredients
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2 ripe mangos, peeled and diced
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4 cups cold water
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2 tablespoons sugar (or sweetener of choice)
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1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
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Ice cubes (optional)
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Fresh mint leaves (optional for garnish)
Instructions
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Prepare the Mangoes: Peel the mangoes and dice them into small chunks. Discard the pit and cut around it to extract as much fruit as possible.
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Blend: In a blender, add the diced mangoes, cold water, and lime juice. Blend until smooth. For a thinner consistency, you can add more water.
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Sweeten: Taste the mixture and add sugar (or your preferred sweetener) to your liking. Blend again to ensure everything is well combined.
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Serve: Pour the mango agua fresca into glasses filled with ice cubes, if desired. Garnish with mint leaves for a refreshing touch.
Notes
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Adjust Sweetness: If your mangoes are very sweet, you may not need much (or any) added sugar. Always taste and adjust the sweetness according to your preference.
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Frozen Mango: For a thicker, creamier drink, use frozen mango cubes instead of fresh. This will give your agua fresca a smoothie-like texture.
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Flavor Variations: Add pineapple or strawberries to the mango mixture for a tropical twist. You could also infuse it with a slice of ginger for a zesty flavor
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Vegetarian
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 90 per serving
Nutrition Information
- Calories: 90
- Fat: 0g
- Carbs: 23g
- Protein: 1g
- Sugar: 21g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Category: Beverages
Cuisine: Mexican
Diet: Vegan, Gluten-Free
Method: Blending
Skill Level: Easy
For another refreshing drink, try the Agua Fresca de Jamaica — a hibiscus water with a tart and floral flavor that complements mango drinks perfectly.
Ingredients
- 2 ripe mangos, peeled and diced
- 4 cups cold water
- 2 tablespoons sugar (or sweetener of choice)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- Ice cubes (optional)
- Mint leaves (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Mangoes: Start by peeling the mangoes with a sharp knife. Cut the mangoes around the pit and dice them into small pieces. If you want a smoother texture, consider using frozen mango chunks for extra creaminess.
- Blend the Mangoes: In a high-speed blender, combine the diced mangoes, cold water, and lime juice. Blend everything together until it reaches a smooth consistency. If you like your agua fresca thinner, you can add more water to adjust the consistency.
- Sweeten the Drink: Taste your mango mixture, and if you prefer a sweeter drink, add 1 to 2 tablespoons of sugar, or a sweetener of your choice (honey or agave works well). Blend the mixture again to combine.
- Serve and Garnish: Pour the mango agua fresca into glasses filled with ice cubes, if desired. Garnish each drink with a sprig of fresh mint for an added burst of freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips and Pro Tips
- Make it Your Own: Mango agua fresca is highly versatile. Add other fruits like pineapple, strawberries, or peaches for a delightful twist. You can also try infusing the water with a small piece of ginger for an extra zing.
- Adjusting Sweetness: Depending on the sweetness of your mangoes, you may need less or more sugar. Be sure to taste the drink before serving and adjust accordingly. If you want to make it more natural, try using a splash of coconut water for added flavor.
- Make It Ahead of Time: You can make mango agua fresca ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Just give it a stir before serving, as the natural fruit pulp may settle at the bottom.
- Frozen Mango for Extra Creaminess: If you prefer a creamier texture, using frozen mango instead of fresh mango can create a thicker, almost smoothie-like consistency. This is perfect for serving as a refreshing summer treat!
If you enjoy fruity beverages, the Starbucks Pink Drink is another vibrant, coconut-mango-inspired treat.
FAQs
1. Can I make Mango Agua Fresca without sugar?
Yes, absolutely! If you’re looking to cut back on sugar or prefer a more natural taste, you can omit the sugar altogether. You could even use a natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit if you prefer.
2. Can I use other fruits in this recipe?
Yes! This recipe is incredibly versatile, so feel free to swap in other fruits. Try blending in pineapple, watermelon, or strawberries for different flavors while maintaining the same refreshing consistency.
3. How can I make a cocktail version of Mango Agua Fresca?
For an adult twist, you can easily turn this agua fresca into a cocktail by adding a splash of rum, tequila, or vodka. Add the alcohol after blending, and give it a stir before serving.
4. Is Mango Agua Fresca healthy?
Yes, mango agua fresca is relatively healthy when made with fresh fruit and minimal added sugar. Mangoes are packed with vitamins A and C, and the drink is hydrating thanks to the water content. If you opt for natural sweeteners, it’s even better!
Conclusion
Mango agua fresca is the ultimate refreshing beverage for summer, offering a burst of tropical flavor and natural sweetness. Whether served at a family gathering or as a solo treat, it’s sure to become a favorite in your beverage repertoire. With just a few simple ingredients, this drink will transport you to a warm, sun-soaked beach, no matter the season.
For a tropical, sweet snack, check out the Pineapple Upside-Down Cookies — the perfect dessert to pair with your agua fresca.
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