Agua de Jamaica (Hibiscus Tea)
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Agua de Jamaica (Hibiscus Tea)
Description
Agua de Jamaica (Hibiscus Tea) is prepared by boiling dried hibiscus flowers in water and then allowing the infusion to steep off the heat to extract a tart, floral flavor and deep ruby color. After straining, granulated sugar is stirred in to balance the tartness according to preference. The tea is refrigerated and served cold, typically poured over ice cubes to create a refreshing drink that cools and hydrates.
The resulting beverage has a bright, slightly tangy taste with floral undertones from the hibiscus flowers. Optional garnishes like fresh mint leaves or lime slices add fragrance and complementary flavors. The versatility of Agua de Jamaica allows it to be served as a simple iced tea, frozen into popsicles called hibiscus paletas, or used as a base for cocktails such as Jamaica margaritas with tequila and lime.
Stored in covered containers, this tea retains its flavor when refrigerated for several days, making it practical for batches. Cinnamon can also be introduced during brewing for a spiced variation. These variations and storage methods make Agua de Jamaica both a flavorful and adaptable beverage.
Serve in a glass dispenser or pitcher filled with ice to keep the drink cool during serving.Make hibiscus popsicles by freezing the tea in molds for a refreshing treat.For a cinnamon variation, brew the hibiscus with cinnamon sticks.Use the hibiscus tea as a base for cocktails such as Jamaica margaritas with tequila and lime juice.Store refrigerated in a covered container for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
Ingredients
- 2 cups dried hibiscus flowers
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar more if desired
- 6 cups water
- ice
- mint optional, leaves
Instructions
- Rinse and drain the dried hibiscus flowers in a large colander.
- Bring water to a boil in a pot. Add the flowers and cover tightly with a lid. Remove from the heat and steep for 10 minutes.
- Strain hibiscus water into a pitcher and discard flowers. Add sugar and stir. Refrigerate until time to serve.
- Taste tea, and add more sugar or dilute with water to your liking.
- Ladle into a tall glass filled with ice and garnish with fresh mint leaves or lime slices (optional).
Notes
- Serve in a glass dispenser or pitcher filled with ice to keep the drink cool during serving.
- Make hibiscus popsicles by freezing the tea in molds for a refreshing treat.
- For a cinnamon variation, brew the hibiscus with cinnamon sticks.
- Use the hibiscus tea as a base for cocktails such as Jamaica margaritas with tequila and lime juice.
- Store refrigerated in a covered container for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 12Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 63 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 63kcal | 3% |
| Carbohydrates | 15g | 5% |
| Protein | 1g | 2% |
| Fat | 1g | 2% |
| Saturated Fat | 1g | 5% |
| Sodium | 7mg | 0% |
| Potassium | 4mg | 0% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 15g | 30% |
| Vitamin A | 117IU | 2% |
| Vitamin C | 7mg | 8% |
| Calcium | 4mg | 0% |
| Iron | 3mg | 17% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.