HIBISCUS TEA

This recipe is something that my Tia Sandra and cousin Andrea introduced me to when they came to visit last summer. It became the summer staple in our house. It is so refreshing and so good for you (honestly, that's what really got us motivated to make it all summer).

We try to make it year round but something about summer really invites the refreshing flavor.

A quick summary of the benefits* I found online in case you were wondering:

Rich in Antioxidants: Hibiscus tea is an herbal tea made from hibiscus plant parts. It may have antioxidant properties that could benefit your health in various ways. ​

May Lower Blood Pressure: Some studies have found that hibiscus tea may lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure. However, to prevent an interaction, it should not be taken in combination with blood pressure medications. ​

Supports Heart Health: Hibiscus tea may help improve blood fat levels, which can be another risk factor for heart disease. ​

Aids Digestion: Hibiscus tea has been found to help reduce inflammation and abdominal bloating. ​

Hydrating and Calming: Hibiscus tea is hydrating, antioxidant-rich, and good for heart health. 

*I am not a doctor so always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health provider regarding a medical condition!

INGREDIENTS

2 cups dried hibiscus petals (also known as "flor de jamaica")​

8 cups water​

Sweetener to taste (such as honey, agave, or sugar)​

Optional garnishes: fresh mint leaves, lime or orange slices​

Variations:

• Spiced Hibiscus Tea: Add a cinnamon stick to the pot while steeping for a warming flavor.​

• Fizzy Hibiscus Tea: Once chilled, mix the tea with sparkling water for a bubbly twist.​ This one is my favorite!

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Rinse the dried hibiscus petals under cold water to remove any impurities.​

2. In a large pot, bring the 8 cups of water to a boil.​

3. Once boiling, remove the pot from heat and add the rinsed hibiscus petals.​

4. Cover the pot and let the mixture steep for about 20 minutes.

5. After steeping, strain the liquid into a pitcher, discarding the hibiscus petals.​

6. Sweeten the tea to your liking and stir well.​

7. Refrigerate until chilled if you prefer it cold.​

8. Serve over ice, garnished with mint leaves or citrus slices if desired.​
   

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Rinse the dried hibiscus petals under cold water to remove any impurities.​

In a large pot, bring the 8 cups of water to a boil.​

Once boiling, remove the pot from heat and add the rinsed hibiscus petals.​

Cover the pot and let the mixture steep for about 20 minutes.

After steeping, strain the liquid into a pitcher, discarding the hibiscus petals.​

Sweeten the tea to your liking and stir well.​

Refrigerate until chilled if you prefer it cold.​

Serve over ice, garnished with mint leaves or citrus slices if desired.​

If you plan on saving this recipe for later via Pinterest, feel free to use this image!

Please tag me if you end up making this recipe, I would LOVE to see how it turns out!!