Do you like the blooms of your Hibiscus plant in the garden?
Did you know you can use these blooms to create a delicious and refreshing drink out of these flowers, once the pedals are tilting?
Traveling to Mexico or other Caribbean countries you will find this “Jamaica Tea” in almost every restaurant or cafe. What a difference in taste to the usual over-sweetened “iced tea” that is served in North America!
This hibiscus drink is served throughout Mexico. It is similar to a tart cranberry tea drink. You may add more or less sugar to your taste if you prefer. Hibiscus blooms are sold in Mexico’s Super-Mercados, but also in small corner stores in many forms and for low prices.
Hibiscus is high in antioxidants and offers many potential benefits. In particular, it may help promote weight loss, reduce the growth of bacteria and cancer cells, and support the health of the heart and liver.
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Want to Make “Agua de Jamaica” at home?
- 6 cups water
- 2 cups dried hibiscus petals
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 pinch ground cloves
- 1 pinch ground nutmeg
- 1 pinch ground allspice
- ½ cup chopped piloncillo (Mexican brown sugar cones)
- 1 cup white sugar
Place 6 cups of water in a large saucepan; bring to a boil. Stir in the hibiscus petals, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and allspice. Reduce heat to medium-low, and gently simmer until the water has turned deep red, about 30 to 45 minutes.
Stir the chopped piloncillo into the hibiscus water until dissolved, then set aside to cool 15 minutes. After cooling, strain the warm liquid into a 1-gallon pitcher through a wire mesh strainer. Squeeze as much liquid from the petals as you can, then discard the petals. Stir in the white sugar until dissolved, then pour in enough cold water to fill the pitcher. Serve immediately or let it stand overnight for the best taste. If you can't find piloncillo, use brown sugar instead.
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Hibiscus pairs really well with things like lemon, mint, orange, and fresh berries. Since this drink is so bright and light, it partners nicely with most snacks, appetizers, or meals. Enjoy!
Read more:
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/hibiscus-tea-benefits#antioxidants
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