Agua de Jamaica

Ingredients

• 50 g Dried hibiscus flowers (Flor de Jamaica; filtered through a colander to remove small particles and washed)
• 7 cup Water (divided)
• 0.5 cup Sugar (use 3/4 cup for more sweetness)
• Ice (for serving)

Steps

1. 1

   Filter out small particles from the dried hibiscus flowers by putting them through a colander.

2. 2

   Wash the flowers quickly under running water, then strain. Do not wash them for more than 20 seconds.

3. 3

   In a pot, simmer 3 of the 7 cups of water until hot.

4. 4

   Add the washed hibiscus flowers and sugar to the hot water and simmer for 3 minutes.

5. 5

   Remove the pot from the heat and allow the mixture to steep for 25 minutes.

6. 6

   Once steeped, strain out the flowers from the liquid and allow the concentrate to cool completely.

7. 7

   Add the remaining 4 cups of water into the cooled mixture.

8. 8

   Add ice and stir well until cold.

Notes

For maximum flavor, allow the mixture to cool in the fridge completely before adding ice. Use high-quality hibiscus flowers that are deep red/burgundy with whole petals and a sweet citrus smell. Variations: Add a splash of orange juice for tangy sweetness or lime for extra tartness. You can also add a ginger or cinnamon stick during the steeping process and remove it when finished.

Nutrition per serving

• drink
• beverage
• mexican
• vegetarian
• vegan
• gluten-free
• dairy-free
• summer