Hibiscus Flower

Hibiscus Flower (Hibiscus salbdariffa) is a dried flower that is used for flavoring warm beverages and soups. These dried flowers have a trumpet shaped body, about an inch in length. They are dark burgundy in color and lend a floral flavor profile to hot drinks or soups and can be used as a garnish.

Hibiscus Tea
4 cups water
1/2 cup dried hibiscus flowers
1/2 cup sugar
Another 3 cups of cold water
More sugar to taste
Fresh Mint

Bring the 4 cups of water to a boil. Remove water from heat and add the dried flowers and sugar. Place a lid over the pot and steep for 10 minutes, stirring once or twice along the way to break down the sugar granules. Pour the infusion through a strainer into a pitcher or jug. Add about 3 more cups of cold water to the pitcher. Taste and adjust water or sugar based on your personal preference. Garnish with fresh mint.

* In Mexico, it is served with a twist of lime instead of Fresh Mint.