Agua de Jamaica (Hibiscus Tea) recipes
This recipe details the preparation of Agua de Jamaica, a refreshing and vibrant hibiscus tea. Dried hibiscus flowers are steeped in hot water, then sweetened with sugar and optionally brightened with fresh citrus juice. It's a simple, customizable beverage perfect for cooling down on a warm day.
Equipment
- 1 Large Saucepan
- 1 Fine-mesh Sieve For straining hibiscus flowers
- 1 Large Pitcher or Carafe For chilling and serving
- 1 Measuring Cups
- 1 Stirring Spoon
Ingredients
Main
- 2 quarts 8 cups water
- 1.5 cups dried hibiscus flowers
- 2/3 cup sugar add more/less to taste
- 1/3 cup fresh orange lemon or lime juice (optional)
Instructions
- Bring 8 cups of water to a rolling boil in a large saucepan.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and immediately add the dried hibiscus flowers.
- Cover the saucepan and let the hibiscus flowers steep for 10-15 minutes, or until the liquid achieves a deep red color.
- Carefully strain the hibiscus liquid through a fine-mesh sieve into a large pitcher or heatproof container, discarding the spent hibiscus flowers.
- While the liquid is still warm, add the sugar and stir thoroughly until it is completely dissolved.
- Stir in the fresh orange, lemon, or lime juice, if you are using it.
- Taste the Agua de Jamaica and adjust the sugar or citrus juice as desired to suit your preference.
- Allow the tea to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until thoroughly chilled.
- Serve the Agua de Jamaica cold over ice, optionally garnished with a slice of citrus or a fresh mint sprig.
Notes
To achieve the perfect balance, taste the tea after adding sugar and citrus, adjusting to personal preference; some may prefer it tarter, others sweeter. Using fresh-squeezed citrus juice (orange, lemon, or lime) significantly elevates the flavor profile, adding a bright, zesty counterpoint to the hibiscus's tartness. For a richer color and flavor, you can steep the hibiscus flowers for up to 20 minutes, but avoid over-steeping as it can introduce a slightly bitter note. Serve well-chilled over ice, perhaps garnished with a thin citrus slice or a sprig of fresh mint, for an enhanced sensory experience.