Agua de Jamaica (Hibiscus Iced Tea)

This is a vibrant, tangy-sweet drink made from dried hibiscus flowers. It’s very popular in Mexico — naturally caffeine-free and perfect for cooling down on a hot day!

🧾 Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried hibiscus flowers (flor de jamaica)
• 4 cups water (for boiling)
• 3–4 cups cold water (for diluting)
• 1/2 to 3/4 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
• Optional: A small piece of cinnamon stick or orange peel for extra flavor

👩‍🍳 Instructions:

1. Boil the hibiscus:
   In a saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add hibiscus flowers (and cinnamon or orange peel if using). Simmer for 5–10 minutes.

1. Steep and cool:
   Turn off the heat and let it steep for another 10–15 minutes.
2. Strain:
   Strain the mixture into a pitcher to remove the flowers and spices.

1. Sweeten:
   Stir in the sugar while the liquid is still warm, until dissolved.
2. Dilute and chill:
   Add 3–4 cups of cold water to dilute the concentrate. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
3. Serve:
   Serve over ice. Garnish with a lime slice or mint if desired.

✅ Tips:

• The dried hibiscus can be found at Latin markets or online.
• Make it ahead – it keeps well in the fridge for 3–4 days.
• You can also turn it into agua fresca by blending with fruit like pineapple or strawberries.