Interesting facts

The Oklahoma State Senate passed a bill on 17 April 2007 declaring watermelon as the official state vegetable, with some controversy as the watermelon is considered by many to be a fruit .

In 2005, China continued to lead the world in ginger production with a global share of almost 25% followed by India, Nepal and Indonesia.

The Watermelon-Ginger Agua Fresca is an all-purpose refresher — you can drink it straight, topped with sparkling water, or spiked with vodka, gin, or tequila.

Servings: Makes about 8 cups

INGREDIENTS

*To make ginger juice, peel a 3-ounce piece of ginger and grate it over a plate. Wrap in cheesecloth; twist at both ends to squeeze out the juice. Or put the grated ginger in a finemesh sieve and press to release the juices. In a pinch, bottled ginger juice is available at natural foods stores.

PREPARATION

1. Place 2 1/2 cups watermelon and 3/4 cup cold water in blender. Puree until smooth.
2. Pour agua fresca into large pitcher. Repeat 3 more times with remaining watermelon and cold water.
3. Add lime juice, 1/4 cup sugar, and ginger juice to pitcher and stir to blend.
4. Add more sugar by tablespoonfuls, if desired.
5. Refrigerate until well chilled, at least 3 hours.
6. Fill glasses with ice cubes; pour agua fresca over. Garnish each glass with lime wedge and serve.

(Can be made 8 hours ahead. Keep chilled. Stir before serving.)