Lulo Juice: Colombia’s agua fresca

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If a Mexican asks me what are the “aguas frescas” of Colombia, I would surely tell him about lulo juice, because it represents exactly the same fresh concept.

Without a doubt lulo juice is a favorite Colombian beverage. People of warmer regions tend to prefer this juice to quench thirst for its fresh, tart flavor. It can even be found in places like Valle del Cauca where it’s mixed with frozen lemonade becoming a refreshing lulada.

Lulo is also known as “naranjilla” in other Latin American countries and likely gets its Colombian name from the Quechua dialect.  Its nutritional properties include iron, phosphorus, Vitamins A and C, and serves as a good natural remedy for conditions such as gout. It also helps to improve the functionality of kidneys and strengthens bones, nails, and hair.

In areas far from tropical climates it can be commonly found as frozen pulp, which is a great thing because the delicious flavor of naranjilla or lulo cannot be substituted.

Enjoy!