Agua De Valencia
If you have ever found yourself in the beautiful Spanish city of Valencia you are sure to have heard of their regional equivalent of Sangria - The sweet but deadly
Agua De Valencia.
Translating literally as, "Valencian Water" this drink was created in the fifties and became popular in the seventies. You'll find it sold by the pitcher and served in broad cocktail glasses with tons of ice.
This cocktail is not very well-known like its other Spanish cocktail counterparts but for me it is by far the best. It is revitalizing, summery and easy to make. But be warned it can be lethal - although it contains much alcohol it tastes like a refreshing and fizzy orange drink.
This is really easy and simple to make and is sure to be a crowd pleaser. Plus, you can be the toast of the town by impressing your friends and family with your cultural knowledge of Spain. There are variations of this recipe but this is my favourite and I think it tastes most authentic. You probably have most of the ingredients in your kitchen, too.
So banish the blues from all this rain and bring a little bit of Spain to your gloomy kitchen. Vamos.
Here is what you need to make your authentic Agua De Valencia:
•Cava or Champagne - preferably semi dry
•Fresh Orange juice - either freshly squeezed or from the carton is fine
•Cointreau
•Vodka and Gin
•Sugar
•Ice
•Pitcher and glasses
Okay so you really need to add all the ingredients together into the pitcher, stir and you are ready to drink:
Depending on your pitcher size [quite big is ideal], I would suggest using two orange juice cartons, one standard bottle of cava, a small glass of vodka and gin and a splash of Cointreau [orange liqueur].
Finish off with lots of ice, orange slice as garnish and a pinch of optional sugar.
Obviously you can change the measurements to suit your preference in taste and strength. Always share your pitcher.
The true taste of Valencian oranges…perfecto