History of aguas frescas
Aguas Frescas is one of the oldest Mexican traditional beverages.
This tradition comes from the Aztecs, who crushed fruits, ground flowers and added water to quench their thirst during long journeys across the region.
Water was placed in a clay pot to keep it cool. In Oaxaca, long before ice was available, these clay pots were stored in drawers of humid earth. Chia seeds were placed on the ground next to the container and then, when the seed became a plant, they used them to decorate the clay containers.
In recent years, housewives have used inexpensive or nearly-ripe fruits. The freshness that this drink provided in the hottest hours of the day made it an important accompaniment to home and inn lunches.
Packaged Juices
- They add calories and sugars.
- It is common for brands to place 90% water and 10% real fruit in their products.
- In the absence of sugar, they use artificial sweeteners that are not always healthy or traceable.
Aguas frescas
- They are a natural source of nutrients, not processed.
- They contain vitamins and minerals, along with beta-carotene, vitamins A, E, and C, and potassium.
- They clean the body from within and prevent heart and brain conditions, among others.