Agua de Jamaica, also known as hibiscus iced tea, is a vibrant and refreshing Mexican agua fresca. Made with just dried hibiscus flowers, sweetener, and water, this tart and slightly sweet beverage is the perfect way to cool down. Serve it over ice with a lime wedge for an extra burst of flavor.
Equipment Needed
- Stockpot
- Strainer
- Measuring cups
- Pitcher or large mason jar
- Ice cube trays
Ingredients
(Adjust quantities using 1x, 2x, or 3x based on servings)
- 2 cups dried hibiscus flowers (flor de Jamaica)
- 8 cups water
- 1 cup cane sugar (or to taste)
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 whole cinnamon stick
- Fresh ginger slices
- Lime wedges
- Orange wedges
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Hibiscus Concentrate:
In a large stockpot, combine water, dried hibiscus flowers, and any optional add-ins like cinnamon or ginger. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it simmer for 10 minutes.
Step 2: Sweeten and Cool:
After 10 minutes, turn off the heat. Stir in the sugar until dissolved. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature, during which the hibiscus flowers will sink to the bottom
Step 3: Strain and Dilute:
Once cooled, pour the mixture through a mesh strainer into a pitcher or large mason jar to remove the flowers and any add-ins. Add an additional 3–4 cups of water to dilute the concentrate (adjust to taste) and stir well.
Step 4: Serve:
Fill a glass with ice, pour in the agua de Jamaica, and garnish with a lime or orange wedge for added zest. Enjoy immediately!
NOTES:
- Enhance with Citrus: A splash of fresh lime or lemon juice can amplify the refreshing flavor.
- Cooling Time: Letting the mixture cool fully enhances the infusion process.
- Repurpose Hibiscus Flowers: After straining, the flowers can be reused as a meat substitute in tacos, quesadillas, or enchiladas.
- Flavor Boost: Adding a cinnamon stick or fresh ginger can introduce a warm, aromatic layer to complement the tartness.
- Dilution Tip: Taste-test while diluting and adjust based on your preferred intensity.
TIPS:
- Keep the pot at a gentle simmer to avoid boiling over or evaporating too much liquid.
- Adjust sweetness to your liking by adding more or less sugar.
- Nutritional values are approximate and not a substitute for dietary advice.
Happy sipping! 🌺
