The History and Origin of Aguas Frescas

Aguas Frescas are part of the traditional beverages of Mexico. The aguas frescas can be made from all kinds of fruits and flowers such as tamarind, hibiscus, pineapple, watermelon, cantaloupe, and jamaica, or there is also a popular one that is horchata, which is made from rice, milk, and cinnamon.

The origin of these drinks dates back to the Aztecs, who used to make beverages with fruits and flowers. In this blog, we will talk about the origins of aguas frescas, some of the variations of these beverages, and the health benefits it brings.

Agua Fresca Origins

This drink is thought to have originated during the pre-Columbian era, which was several centuries ago. According to some sources, the Aztecs used to go to Tenochtitlan, modern-day Mexico City, to buy fruits for their agua fresca.

Then, during the 1940s, a vendor brought over this beverage on their cart, and it became a popular staple in street markets. Mexican legends suggest that the Aztecs would chill their drink with ice from the dormant volcanoes Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl.

What is Agua Fresca?

The term “agua fresca” may be directly translated to fresh, cold, or refreshing water, but this phrase does not fully convey the delightful and fruity nature of these enjoyable beverages.

These drinks don’t contain alcohol and are usually made by mixing water and sugar with fresh fruits and vegetables that are in season. Other common ingredients include dry pantry staples like rice, hibiscus, and tamarind pods, which are also used in making them.

Popular Aguas Frescas

You will often find many popular flavors of water-based drinks, such as the following:

• strawberry
• cantaloupe
• honeydew
• lemon
• lime
• mango
• papaya
• pineapple
• watermelon
• tamarindo
• horchata (made with jicaro seeds or rice)
• jamaica (made with hibiscus flowers)

Regional Variations of Aguas Frescas

Depending on the zone, the recipe for this beverage tends to vary. Here we will show you the most popular of some regions:

• In Guerrero, aguas frescas are called “ponche de frutas” or fruit punch, a combination of papaya, pineapple, watermelon, orange juice, and sugar.
• In Chiapas state, “frutada” is the name of the refreshing beverage with guava, strawberry, peach, and sugar.
• In Puebla, their favorite agua fresca is made from mamey almond water, which is made by scraping the bone of the fruit and adding it to the previously sweetened water.
• Tabasco, enjoy the agua fresca of oatmeal and chocolate. This beverage has a thick consistency.
• In Sinaloa, barley agua fresca is the popular one. It is made using barley that has been soaked in sugar, water, and cinnamon.

As you can see, every region or state in Mexico has a variation of agua frescas. These beverages are a perfect way to cool off during hot Summer days. Most of all, they are also very healthy and nutritious beverages.

Health Benefits of Aguas Frescas

Aguas Frescas are not only delicious, but they have a lot of health benefits too. Drinks like agua frescas that contain pulp have more fiber than those that have infused fruit flavor or do not have pulp. Fiber can help balance blood sugar levels, digestion, and feeling full.

Fruit is also rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that can help maintain optimal health. Drinking aguas frescas may also be a refreshing way to stay hydrated without consuming too many calories.

Your Authentic Mexican Caterers in California!

Agua fresca is a Mexican tradition with roots in centuries-old Aztec culture. These refreshing drinks have become popular worldwide thanks to their delicious flavor and health benefits. Whether you prefer your agua fresca with fruit or dry pantry staples like rice and tamarind, these beverages will tantalize your taste buds.

At The Taco Guy Catering, we offer authentic Mexican cuisine and aguas frescas made with fresh fruits and ingredients of the highest quality. Come check us out for your next event or special occasion!