fbpx Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Ice cold glass of agua fresca. This hibiscus iced tea is garnished with mint and lime.

Hibiscus Tea


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

5 from 11 reviews

  • Author: Denay DeGuzman
  • Total Time: 2 Hours 25 Minutes
  • Yield: 5 Servings 1x

Description

Hibiscus tea is a vibrant, refreshing beverage made from dried hibiscus flowers steeped in hot water. It has a ruby-red hue and a tangy floral flavor with a touch of sweetness. Serve chilled over ice. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and/or lime.


Ingredients

Units Scale

For Hibiscus Tea

  • 8 cups water (purified)
  • 2 cup dried hibiscus flowers, firmly-packed
  • 1 cup granulated sugar, or to taste

For Serving

  • Ice cubes
  • Fresh mint and/or lime slices (optional)

Instructions

Recipe Prep: Gently rinse the hibiscus flowers in a colander to remove any dust or debris.

  1. In a medium-sized pot, bring cold water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, turn off the heat and add the dried hibiscus flowers to the pot. Use about 1/4 to 1/2 cup of dried flowers per quart (4 cups) of water, depending on how strong you want the tea. Cover the pot with a lid and let the hibiscus flowers steep in the hot water for about 15-20 minutes. This allows the flavors to infuse into the water. But avoid steeping the flowers too long or the tea will have a bitter taste.
  2. After steeping, add granulated sugar to sweeten the tea, if desired. Stir well until the sugar is completely dissolved. Adjust the sweetness according to your taste preference.
  3. Once the tea has steeped and sweetened (if desired), use a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth to strain out the hibiscus flowers, pouring the tea into a clean pitcher or container. Discard the solids. Allow the strained tea to cool to room temperature.
  4. Once the hibiscus tea is at room temperature, cover the pitcher or container and place it in the fridge to chill for at least 2-4 hours or until thoroughly chilled.
  5. When ready to enjoy, carefully pour the chilled hibiscus tea into glasses filled with ice. If desired, garnish each glass with fresh mint leaves and/or lime slices to enhance the flavor and presentation.

Notes

Where to find hibiscus flowers: In the United States, look for this product in the Hispanic aisle of large supermarkets. You can also find it at specialty Mexican markets, or buy a package online. In Mexico, Flor de Jamaica (hibiscus flower) is a common ingredient sold in bulk. It’s often packaged in clear cellophane bags. At the grocery store look for it in the produce section near the fruits and veggies.

Alternate sweetener: Instead of granulated sugar, feel free to use honey instead.

Want to add more flavors to the tea? Steep the hibiscus flowers along with fresh basil or lemongrass.

  • Prep Time: 5 Minutes
  • Cooling Time: 2 Hours
  • Cook Time: 20 Minutes
  • Category: Drinks
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mexican