Ajua Fresca by Chuntikis Julio "Jules" Gutierrez

Chuntikis’ Ajua’ Fresca

Name: Chuntikis’ Ajua’ Fresca
Yield: 10
Cuisine: American

Recipe: Julio “Jules” Gutierrez , Chuntikis , Long Beach, California

Photo: Dylan + Jeni

January 27, 2023

A cocktail inspired by the vibrant drinks of Mexico.

Inspired by the brightly colored beverages sold in plastic bags by street vendors in Mexico, Chuntikis founder Julio “Jules” Gutierrez created this vibrant cocktail using tequila as a base. For the frutos rojos (red fruits) syrup, use whatever red fruits or berries are in season (or are readily available in the freezer aisle, such as a bag of mixed frozen berries).

Ingredients

2 oz. overproof blanco tequila
1 1/2 oz. chilled mineral water
1 oz. fresh lemon juice
3/4 oz. triple sec
1/2 oz. watermelon liqueur (such as Bols)
1/2 oz. hibiscus syrup
1/2 oz. frutos rojos syrup
1/2 oz. fresh lime juice

Glass:durable plastic bag (or Collins glass)

Preparation

Combine all of the ingredients in a bag or glass partially filled with ice. Serve with a fun straw.

Frutos Rojos Syrup Mix 8 oz. of granulated sugar with 1 cup of water and stir to dissolve sugar. Measure 8 oz. of red fruit (such as strawberries, raspberries, strawberry guava, or a combination), chop any large pieces of fruit if necessary, and add to the syrup. Cover the mixture and let it steep for several hours or overnight, then use a strainer to remove the solids, pressing with a rubber spatula to extract much of the juice. Keeps refrigerated for up to 1 week.

Hibiscus SyrupAdd 3/4 cup of dried hibiscus to 1 cup of room-temperature simple syrup (1:1). Let infuse for 1 to 2 hours, then strain out the solids. Keeps refrigerated for up to 1 week.