When the heat hits hard, there’s nothing more satisfying than sipping on something cold, refreshing, and full of flavor. In Mexico, people have mastered the art of staying cool with a trio of beloved traditional beverages: agua de tamarindo, agua de jamaica, and agua de horchata. These naturally flavored drinks—aguas frescas—quench your thirst and steep you in Mexican culture. Mexican restaurants have brought these delicious and refreshing drinks to their American customers. And you can try them all at Vallarta Tacos & Burritos.
Stay cool with traditional aguas frescas from your favorite Mexican restaurants. Here’s a look at the three varieties we serve.
Agua de Tamarindo
Made from the pulp of tamarind pods, agua de tamarindo has a tangy-sweet taste that’s as bold as it is refreshing. The process starts by soaking tamarind pods until they’re soft, removing the seeds, and then blending the pulp with water and sugar. The result is a drink that’s slightly tart, subtly sweet, and loaded with natural electrolytes. It’s perfect for hydrating on a hot day. Its unique flavor profile also makes it a standout among fruit-based drinks.
Agua de Jamaica
Don’t let the name fool you. “Jamaica” (pronounced hah-MY-kah) refers to hibiscus flowers, not the Caribbean island. This deep ruby-red drink is made by steeping dried hibiscus petals in hot water, then sweetening and chilling it. Agua de jamaica is slightly tart, similar to cranberry juice, and has antioxidant properties. Often enjoyed with a squeeze of lime, it’s a vibrant and revitalizing drink that cools you down fast.
Agua de Horchata
Creamy and comforting, agua de horchata is a rice-based drink flavored with cinnamon and vanilla. It’s usually made by soaking rice (sometimes with almonds), blending it, and straining it into a smooth, milky beverage that’s sweetened to taste. Served cold over ice, horchata offers a sweet and aromatic contrast to the tanginess of tamarindo and jamaica, making it a soothing choice for any time of day.
Stay Cool and Refreshed with Your Favorite Mexican Restaurants
Whether you’re lounging in the shade or enjoying a summer cookout, these three aguas frescas are an easy and delicious way to beat the heat naturally. They’re also the perfect complement to flavorful Mexican dishes.