WHAT IS HIBISCUS TEA?

First, what is hibiscus? Hibiscus (referred to as the Jamaica flower in Mexico) is a flowering plant native to warm and tropical climates like India, Africa, and Asia. While there are many species, the pink and red-colored flowers are most commonly used for culinary uses thanks to the gorgeous color they impart.

Hibiscus tea is an infusion made with hibiscus flowers (specifically the crimson and magenta calyces of the roselle plant) and water, consumed either warm or as an iced tea. This herbal tea has been consumed for thousands of years and is fruity and tart with a gorgeous red/purple color.

Red hibiscus flower on the plant

Red hibiscus flower

Dried hibiscus leaves spread on a flat surface

Dried hibiscus petals

WHAT ARE HIBISCUS TEA BENEFITS?

As well as tasting incredible, this simple herbal tea also contains several health benefits, including:

Antioxidant-rich – helping to fight harmful free radicals and reduce the risk of several chronic diseases.

Lowers blood pressure and cholesterol.

Immune booster – thanks to a high vitamin C content and several minerals.

Detoxifying.

Can reduce menstrual pain.

Beneficial to skin health.

HOW TO MAKE HIBISCUS TEA?

WARM HIBISCUS TEA

Boil the water either on the stovetop or in a kettle.

Once boiled, place the hibiscus petals in a teapot or pitcher and cover with the water. Allow it to steep for 4-5 minutes, then strain, sweeten, and enjoy.

Steps for making hibiscus tea

It’s best to use a strainer to place the petals, so removing them after the steeping process is easier.

You can also use this method to prepare iced hibiscus tea, too.

COLD BREW HIBISCUS TEA

The cold brew hibiscus tea recipe minimizes the risk of bitterness while still extracting full flavor from the flowers. This version steeps the tea in your fridge for up to 2 days (it can take a minimum of 4 hours, but steep to your desired color and flavor). Prepare the tea in a pitcher or in a large bottle that fits in your fridge.

Add the hibiscus petals to a pitcher filled with the water (room temperature or cool is fine) and stir.

Place it in the fridge overnight. Then strain to remove the petals and serve.

If you want to sweeten the cold brew, it’s best to use a liquid sweetener like simple syrup or maple as they are easier to dilute in the cold tea.