Hibiscus tea is a beautiful red to crimson colored tea made from hibiscus flowers. Hibiscus tea is also known by other names in different parts of the world. As a Latina, I have grown up drinking this tea that is called Agua de Jamaica, which is essentially Hibiscus tea. It would be sold at most Mexican restaurants or near taco stands along with other Aguas Frescas. In Australia, where my husband grew up, it is known as a rosella, and in most parts of the Carribean it is referred to as sorrel. Pretty exotic huh. The hibiscus flowers provide an almost cranberry like tart flavor when made into a tea and when combined with sweetener it serves as a nice refreshing beverage.
So, if you are looking to add some exotic flavored infused beverage to your rotation I highly recommend a nice cold Hibiscus Tea.
Buen Provecho!
Hibiscus Tea – Agua de Jamaica
Printable Version
Yield: Makes 2.75 Quarts Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients:
–1 ½ Cups of Dried Hibiscus Flowers
-11 Cups of Water
-3/4 Cup to 1 Cup of Granulated Sugar
Equipment Needed:
-Colander
-Large Pitcher
-Large Pot
-Measuring Cup
-Spoon
-Drinking Glasses
Prep & Directions
– Place a large pot on the stove and turn the gas/electric knob to a medium to high
setting
– Pour 6 cups of water into the pot and boil
– Pour in ¾ cup to 1 cup of granulated sugar into the boiling water and stir sugar with a
large spoon until sugar is well dissolved (use less or more sugar depending on your
preference)
– Reduce the heat to a low setting and let the water simmer
– Pour 1 ½ cups of dried hibiscus flowers into the pot and let simmer for about 5-10
minutes
– After 10 minutes, turn off the stove and let the hibiscus flowers set for 15 minutes
– Get a large pitcher
– Pour 5 cups of cool water into the pitcher
– Get a colander and place over the pitcher
– Get the pot with the hibiscus tea and pour the tea over the colander into the pitcher
(make sure to not let hibiscus flowers fall into the pitcher)
– Serve with ice
*****Feel free to add more ingredients and season to suit your taste buds*****