Mexican agua de jamaica — iced hibiscus tea
Ruby-red, tart, floral. The most-drunk cold beverage in Mexico after Coca-Cola. Also cardiovascular support — small clinical trials show a modest blood-pressure lowering effect.
Ingredients for 6
Method
- I
Rinse the hibiscus flowers in a sieve under cold water — they gather dust.
- II
In a saucepan, bring 750 ml of the water to a boil. Add the hibiscus flowers and the cinnamon stick.
- III
Reduce heat and simmer 10 minutes. The water turns deep red almost immediately.
- IV
Off the heat, add the sugar. Stir until fully dissolved. Cover, let steep 20 minutes.
- V
Strain into a large pitcher, pressing on the flowers to extract everything.
- VI
Add the remaining 750 ml cold water and the lime juice. Stir.
- VII
Refrigerate at least 2 hours until fully cold.
- VIII
Serve over lots of ice with a mint sprig and a lime slice.
Notes & variations
The strained flowers are edible — chop finely and add to salads, salsas, or use to make a chutney with lime and chili. Hibiscus can lower blood pressure — those on antihypertensive medication should consult a doctor before daily use.
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