Ingredients
For the Chile de Arbol Simple Syrup:
- 5 Badia Arbol Chili Pods
- 1 cup Water
- 1 cup Sugar
For the Agua Fresca:
- 2 lbs whole Honeydew Melon, cubed to make about 5 cups
- 1 (12 ounce) Badia Coconut Water
- 1 tbsp Chile de Arbol Simple Syrup
- 1 tbsp Fresh Lime Juice from 1 Lime
- Fresh Melon for garnish, optional
Directions
For the Chile de Arbol Simple Syrup:
- Tear the chiles with your hands and combine them (seeds and all) in a small saucepan with water and sugar
- Bring to boil, stirring frequently, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes
- Remove from heat, let cool to room temperature, strain and refrigerate liquid
- Syrup keeps for up to 1 week in a sealed container
For the Agua Fresca:
- Put the honeydew in a blender and pulse a few times to break down the melon then blend on medium for about 15 more seconds, until a pulpy puree forms
- Position a colander lined with a double layer of cheesecloth over a bowl and pour the honeydew mixture into the colander
- Let strain for about 10 minutes, then pick up the ends of the cheesecloth and squeeze to extract any remaining juice
- Measure 1 1/2 cups of the resulting juice and combine with the coconut water, chile de arbol syrup, and lime juice in a small pitcher
- Stir to combine and refrigerate until completely cool
- Serve garnished with additional fresh melon if desired