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This refreshing Agua de Fresa brings together sweet ripe strawberries and a creamy touch from evaporated milk for a drink that is as festive as it is satisfying The simple blend comes together in less than fifteen minutes making it a fun way to treat friends or family anytime and a guaranteed crowd pleaser at summer gatherings
My sister first served this at a picnic and the bright pink color instantly drew everyone in Now it is the drink my niece always asks for when she visits
Ingredients
- Fresh strawberries: These are the star Use the ripest berries you can find for the sweetest flavor Local berries in season are unbeatable
- Evaporated milk: Makes the drink creamy and gives it a classic flavor Choose a can without any added flavorings for the purest taste
- Condensed milk: Sweetens and thickens the agua for a treatlike texture You can swap this for honey or a lowcalorie sweetener for a lighter version
- Water: Lightens the mixture and marries the flavors Use filtered water for a clean finish
- Ice cubes and sliced strawberries: For serving These keep each glass extra cold and pretty Opt for large clear ice cubes if possible
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Strawberries:
- Rinse and hull one pound of fresh strawberries making sure to remove any stems and tough bits The sweeter your strawberries the less sugar you will need at the end
- Blend for Flavor:
- Add the cleaned strawberries with two cups of water to your blender Process on high until the mixture is completely smooth and pink in color This usually takes one to two minutes Taste the purée a small spoonful it should be vibrant and fragrant
- Strain or Not:
- Decide whether you want a smoother drink If so strain the strawberry purée into a large pitcher through a fine mesh sieve pressing gently to extract all the juice Or skip straining if you like extra fiber and a thicker drink
- Mix the Milks:
- Pour in the evaporated milk and the sweetened condensed milk Stir until all the dairy is dissolved into the pink base This step gives the agua its signature creamy look and taste
- Add Extra Water:
- Pour in the remaining four cups of water Use a long spoon to mix thoroughly making sure the milk and strawberry layers are fully combined
- Sweeten to Taste:
- Taste the agua and add more condensed milk or sugar if you want your drink sweeter I often add a spoonful at this stage if the berries are tart Stir well to let the sweetener fully dissolve
- Serve with Style:
- Fill glasses with ice cubes and sliced strawberries then pour the Agua de Fresa over the top Serve immediately for the most vibrant flavor and color
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You Must Know
- Loaded with vitamin C from strawberries and calcium from the milk
- A fun way to introduce kids to homemade fruit drinks
- Can be customized to be dairyfree or lighter in sugar
My favorite part is always adding freshly sliced strawberries the little bites at the bottom remind me of berry picking with my grandmother It was our tradition to stir a drink like this together after a long day outdoors
Storage Tips
This drink keeps well in the refrigerator for up to two days Store in a covered pitcher without ice to avoid dilution Always stir before serving as the mixture can settle a bit Refrigerate any leftover strawberry slices separately and add just before serving to keep them perky
Ingredient Substitutions
No evaporated milk Try regular whole milk or your favorite plantbased milk like oat or almond for a dairyfree riff You can also swap condensed milk with maple syrup or agave for a different sweetness profile Frozen strawberries work just as well as fresh just blend a bit longer until no icy bits remain
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Serving Suggestions
Pour Agua de Fresa over crushed ice for a slushie feel Top with whipped cream for a dessert finish Pair with savory street foods like tacos or spicy chips for a playful sweetandsalty combo This drink is also perfect alongside a light picnic lunch
Cultural Context
Agua de Fresa is a muchloved member of the Mexican aguas frescas family Traditionally served from huge glass jars at mercados and parties it combines seasonal fruit with water and sweetener to create something cooling and festive Every family has its preferred combination and this creamy version is especially popular with kids in the summer
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How can I make a dairy-free version?
For a lighter option, simply blend strawberries with water and sweetener, omitting the milk and using fresh lime juice for extra brightness.
- → Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, frozen strawberries work well; blend them a bit longer with water to achieve a smooth consistency.
- → How do I adjust the sweetness?
Taste the drink before serving and add more condensed milk or sugar if needed until it suits your preference.
- → What's the best way to serve?
Pour the drink over ice in glasses and garnish with strawberry slices for a festive and refreshing presentation.
- → Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes, keep it chilled in the fridge and add ice just before serving to avoid diluting the flavor.
- → What are healthy sweetener alternatives?
Consider replacing condensed milk with stevia, honey, or monk fruit for a healthier twist.