Smoky Watermelon Lime Hibiscus Agua Fresca with Mint
An original, refreshing drink combining lightly smoked watermelon, a bold hibiscus infusion, fresh lime juice, and gently crushed mint. The result is a chilled, vibrant, balanced beverage, perfect for warm days or serving at a special meal.
Ingredients
- 800 g seedless watermelon, cubed (well cold)
- 12 g dried hibiscus flowers (also conocidas como flor of jamaica)
- 750 ml water (divided)
- 80 ml fresh lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 45 ml agave syrup (ajustar to taste)
- 12 g fresh mint leaves (more extra for decorar if desired)
- 1 g fine sea salt (realza the sabor)
- 400 g ice (for licuar and servir)
Nutrition facts
per serving
Approximate nutritional information. Estimated from the recipe’s ingredients and amounts, using standard reference nutrition values. It may vary with brands, sizes and cooking method. For guidance only; not a substitute for medical or dietary advice.
Allergens
No declared allergens
Instructions
- 1
1. Bring 250 ml of the water to a boil in a small saucepan. Once boiling, remove from the heat, add the dried hibiscus flowers, and let steep for 8 minutes. Strain and cool the infusion. To speed up cooling, place it in the refrigerator until chilled.
- 2
2. Meanwhile, heat a grill pan or griddle over medium-high heat until very hot, about 400°F (200°C). Place the watermelon cubes in batches and sear for 1 to 2 minutes per side, just until lightly charred lines appear. Do not fully cook them.
- 3
3. Transfer the seared watermelon to a blender. Add the chilled hibiscus infusion, the remaining 500 ml water, fresh lime juice, agave syrup, mint leaves, fine sea salt, and half of the ice.
- 4
4. Blend for 45 to 60 seconds, until the drink is smooth and very cold.
- 5
5. Strain the mixture into a large pitcher to remove thicker pulp and mint fibers, pressing gently with a spoon to extract as much liquid as possible.
- 6
6. Divide the remaining ice among 4 glasses and pour the drink over it. If desired, garnish with extra mint leaves and serve immediately.
Chef tips
For deeper flavor, chill the watermelon in the refrigerator before searing it. If you prefer a more rustic texture, you can skip straining.
Substitutions
You can substitute agave syrup with maple syrup in the same amount for an equally balanced vegan version. Lime juice can be replaced with lemon juice, though the profile will be less vibrant. If you do not have mint, use spearmint.
What I used to make it
Generic kitchen tools that work for this recipe. You don’t need to buy anything to make it.
Illustrative imageNinja Professional BL610 Blender
Smoothies, sauces and soups
- Smoothies, sauces and soups
- Easy-to-wash jar
- Check the power and jar size
Illustrative imageT-fal Ultimate Hard Anodized 12" Non-Stick Pan
Eggs, omelets and stir-fries
- Eggs and omelets that don’t stick
- Comfortable, sturdy handle
- Use wooden or silicone utensils
Illustrative imageVictorinox Fibrox Pro 8" Chef’s Knife
Chopping, slicing and cutting strips
- The knife I use most when cooking
- Chops, slices and cuts into strips
- Keep it sharp and hand-dry it
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