Creamy Cantaloupe Drink

There's a reason you'll almost always find a pitcher of Filipino cantaloupe drink at family parties, birthdays, and holiday gatherings. It's one of the easiest and most refreshing drinks you can make, using just a ripe cantaloupe, cold water, and a sugar. Sweet, fragrant, and incredibly refreshing, it's the perfect way to cool down on a hot day.

Growing up, I would be thrilled to see a pitcher of ice-cold cantaloupe juice sitting on the table. The secret is shredding the cantaloupe instead of blending it. This creates delicate ribbons of melon that soak up the sweet syrup while giving every sip a fresh, juicy bite. It's simple, nostalgic, and a staple in many Filipino households.

Ingredients

1 medium ripe cantaloupe

6 cups cold water

½ cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)

1 tablespoon fresh calamansi juice or lemon juice (optional)

Plenty of ice

1. Cut the cantaloupe in half and remove the seeds.

2. Using a box grater or julienne peeler, shred the cantaloupe flesh into long, thin strands. Avoid grating too close to the rind. Transfer the shredded cantaloupe to a large pitcher.

3. Add the sugar and stir until it begins to dissolve. Pour in the cold water and add the calamansi juice, if using.

4. Taste and adjust the sweetness to your liking. Add plenty of ice and chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Yes you cantaloupe