Agua fresca de Jamaica (iced hibiscus tea) is a tangy, refreshing drink that's made with dried hibiscus flowers, sugar, and lime juice. There are two steps to making hibiscus flower tea. First, you'll make a ruby-colored hibiscus concentrate that you can use to make several glasses of tea by infusing hibiscus flowers in water. Once you've made the concentrate, it's easy to mix it with an equal amount of water to create a big-batch drink. Garnish each glass with fresh lime or orange slices and serve over ice.
What Is Hibiscus?
Hibiscus is a popular ingredient in Central and South American, West African, and Caribbean cooking. It's a tropical plant that's native to West and Central Africa. Today, it's grown throughout the world and produces edible flowers that are used to make teas, syrups, desserts, and other drinks. Hibiscus flowers lend a bright red color and a fruity, tart, and subtle floral flavor to recipes. Some compare the flavor to cranberry. In addition to tea, it's great in baked goods and also in cocktails (try our Rose-Hibiscus Spritz).
Test Kitchen Tip: When shopping for the dried hibiscus flowers, select a package that has flowers that are still a bit pliable. If the flowers are dry and brittle, they are past their prime and won't be as flavorful.
Ingredients
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1 quart water
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1 cup dried hibiscus flowers (flor de jamaica)
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1/2 cup granulated sugar
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Lime juice (optional)
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Lime and/or orange slices, for garnish
Directions
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Prepare the Concentrate
In a medium saucepan combine 1 quart of water and the dried flowers. Heat over medium-high until boiling. Remove from heat and let stand 30 minutes to steep. Drain well. Makes 3 cups.
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Prepare a Pitcher of Hibiscus Tea
Combine the 3 cups of concentrate with 3 cups cold water and 6 tablespoons sugar. Stir to dissolve sugar. Taste and adjust sweetness by adding additional sugar, if desired. Serve over ice.
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Serve With Lime
Serve with a squeeze of lime, if desired, and garnish glasses with lime and/or orange slices.
How to Make Hibiscus Tea for One
To prepare a single serving of hibiscus tea, combine equal parts concentrate and cold water in an ice-filled glass. Add sugar to desired sweetness. We suggest 1 tablespoon sugar for 4 ounces of concentrate and 4 ounces water.
How To Store Hibiscus Tea
Store leftover hibiscus tea in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Stir or shake before serving.
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