Watermelon Agua Fresca

By Katecooks

Ingredients

• 6 pound watermelon, chopped into cubes
• 2 tablespoons to 1/4 cup of sugar (optional)
• 1/4 cup water

Preparation

Step 1

1.
In batches (unless your blender is huge), add the chopped watermelon. Add a splash of water (about 2 tablespoons) and pulse until completely pureed, about 1 minute. (If you're adding a bit of sugar, you'll want to add the sugar amount you desire and just as much water to a small saucepan; heat until the sugar dissolves and then add the sugar/water mixture to the blender.)

2. Line a sieve with a few layers of cheese cloth. Place the sieve atop a bowl or large pitcher. Pour the watermelon puree into the cheese cloth and allow to strain--it may take around 5 minutes or so.

3. Repeat the blending and straining process with the remaining chopped watermelon. Transfer the watermelon juice to the refrigerator for 1 hour to chill. Divide the watermelon juice amongst glasses.