Summertime is made for enjoying time in the sun, but it can also be quite dehydrating. This week's post has just the right combination of heat and hydration and is inspired by Mexican (summer) traditions to beat the heat! If you've never been to Mexico, beaches and tacos might come to mind, but for us, so too do mouth-watering fruits and cold beverages.As a Modern home decor market, we know that creativity doesn't just end with an artisan handblown pitcher and glass set—no, that is just when it begins its transformation into other stories of creativity.We'd like to help you get your creative juices flowing at home alongside these beautiful handblown Mexican artisan glasswares by mixing up some refreshing Aguas frescas! These "fresh waters" are traditional non-alcoholic Mexican and Central American beverages made with fresh fruit, citruses, water and sugar, normally sold by street vendors or in bodegas. There are many different Aguas frescas including those made with flowers, seeds, and/or grains, such as the well-know horchata made from rice, water and cinnamon. Since we like simplicity, we will stick to just sweet & sour fruits for our summer version of Aguas frescas (scroll down for the recipe).We couldn't resist pairing this drink recipe with our Mexican handblown glasses and pitcher because both are made from recycled bottles (bonus!) and handblown by an artisan team in Jalisco, Mexico. Preparing and serving this Agua Fresca is a nod to the Mexican artisan & traditional culture imbued in both the Aqua and Orange Swirl colored sets. Bright citrus-fruit colors and crystal blue oceans are Mexican specialities and these handmade glasswares reflect that. Mexico is known for its artisan traditions, especially in the Jalisco state, where these glasses are made, and glass blowing is an art that requires years of mastery.Pop of Modern is proud to be offering these artisan-made and artist-supported glasswares. As a set (pitcher and glasses) or separately, they make the perfect housewarming and newlywed gift. Happy shopping! Watermelon Agua Fresca Ingredients & Tools:We recommend seasonal and local produce when possible!4 cups of watermelon (1-inch pieces peeled and seeded) 2-3 in. piece of ginger or 5 kiwis peeled and diced (optional)2 1/2 cups cold (sparkling) mineral water2-3 Limes, juiced completely and some sliced for garnish1/4 cup cane sugar or monk fruit sugar (great for low sugar option) *2 handfuls of fresh Mint leaves (optional)Container or jar big enough for mixingCocktail Muddler, Immersion Blender or other mixer Directions:After washing, peeling, de-seeding and slicing all the fruits, smash with the muddler or blend in a large enough container the watermelon, ginger or kiwi, and lime (also mint if using a muddler). Once the consistency of fruit is to your liking, add sugar and water and stir until completely incorporated. If having blended the fruit mixture, now add the fresh mint leaves by tapping them vigorously first against the wrist (to release the scent and flavor). Serve with ice, extra lime and mint for garnish and enjoy these cooling waters in the hot summer months!*Normally Aguas Frescas are made with the fresh fruits, (sparkling) water, and sugar, but we’re going to omit the sugar of the ‘traditional’ recipe and replace it monk fruit sugar. But, this is up to you and your taste & dietary needs!
