Drinks
Aguapanela con Limón
Ingredients
- - Panela (unrefined cane sugar), grated — 200 g (1 cup)
- - Water — 1 l (4 cups)
- - Lime, juiced — 1
Method
- Bring the water to a simmer in a saucepan.
- Add the grated panela and stir until fully dissolved.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly if serving warm, or chill fully for a cold drink.
- Stir in the lime juice just before serving.
Introduction: Aguapanela is a simple hot or cold drink made by dissolving panela (unrefined whole cane sugar) in water, often finished with lime, and is one of Colombia's oldest and most enduring beverages, dating back to the country's early sugar cane haciendas.
Cultural Background: Aguapanela is a simple hot or cold drink made by dissolving panela (unrefined whole cane sugar) in water, often finished with lime, and is one of Colombia's oldest and most enduring beverages, dating back to the country's early sugar cane haciendas.
Tips: For a cold version, dissolve the panela in a small amount of hot water first, then top up with cold water and ice to avoid a grainy texture.
Variations: Aguapanela is often served with a slice of fresh cheese to dunk (aguapanela con queso), or with a stick of cinnamon simmered in for warmth. Naturally vegetarian and vegan as written.
Storage: Refrigerate in a covered pitcher for up to 4 days.
Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop if serving hot; do not boil vigorously once lime juice has been added.
Nutrition: Per serving (approx.): 90 kcal, 0g protein, 23g carbohydrate, 0g fat, 0g fibre.
FAQs
Q: Can I use brown sugar instead of panela?
A: It's a reasonable substitute in a pinch, though it lacks panela's deeper molasses-like flavour.
Q: Is aguapanela served hot or cold?
A: Both — hot in cooler highland regions, especially with breakfast, and cold as a refreshing drink on the coast.