Mexican Migrants Observe Semana Santa with “Agua de Obispo”
Why this is here: The Agua de Obispo recipe calls for finely grated beets and beet juice, giving the drink its distinctive color and contributing to its symbolic association with the “Blood of Christ.”
Mexican migrants in the U.S. traditionally celebrate Semana Santa with a centuries-old beverage called Agua de Obispo, also known as Sangre de Cristo. Originating in Mexican seminaries, the drink was first created with fruits and vegetables harvested by monks. It was consumed as early as the 16th century during visits to altars dedicated to the Virgin of Dolores.
The beverage, popular in Zacatecas, Mexico, consists of water mixed with beets, lettuce, oranges, apples, bananas, and peanuts. Some families still display a statue of the Virgin Mary, a crucifix, and decorated tables as part of the tradition.
A recipe for a 10-serving batch requires two medium beets, a quarter of a head of lettuce, two oranges, two apples, two bananas, ten grams of peanuts, ice, and two liters of water. The drink is believed to provide nutrients like iron, calcium, and antioxidants. Semana Santa will be observed from March 29 to April 5 in 2026.