Chilled Hibiscus Delight
Chilled Hibiscus Delight, known as Agua de Jamaica in Mexico, is a vibrant floral drink that bursts with a tangy sweetness, making it the perfect refreshing complement to your favorite Mexican dishes. Infused with antioxidant-rich hibiscus flowers, this bright beverage has a deep crimson hue that beckons on warm days and at celebratory gatherings. Enhanced with a hint of sweetness, it is sure to please both kids and adults alike. Serve it chilled over ice, garnished with fresh mint or lime for an extra zing! Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue or enjoying a quiet afternoon, this invigorating drink is a must-try.
N/A
Servings
69
Calories
4
Ingredients
Ingredients
Dried hibiscus flowers
4 cups (dried)
Water (for steeping)
4 cups (for boiling)
Granulated sugar
1/4 cup (to sweeten (can substitute agave nectar))
Cold distilled water
4 cups (for dilution)
Instructions
1
In a large saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Once boiling, add in the dried hibiscus flowers. Allow them to cook for 2 minutes, then remove from heat.
2
Cover the saucepan and let the flowers steep in the hot water for 30 minutes. This will extract their rich color and flavor.
3
After steeping, strain the mixture through a fine sieve into a large bowl or measuring cup to separate the liquid from the flowers. Discard the used flowers.
4
While the liquid is still warm, add 1/4 cup of granulated sugar (or agave nectar) to sweeten the concentrate, stirring until fully dissolved.
5
Next, pour in 4 cups of cold distilled water, stir well, and taste. Adjust sweetness if necessary by adding more sugar or agave.
6
Transfer the Agua de Jamaica to the refrigerator and let it chill for about 4 hours before serving.
7
To serve, pour the chilled Agua de Jamaica over ice in tall glasses. Garnish with fresh mint or a slice of lime if desired. Enjoy!
Nutrition Information
0g
Fat
17g
Carbs
0g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chilled Hibiscus Delight?
Chilled Hibiscus Delight, or Agua de Jamaica, is a vibrant, floral, and tangy Mexican beverage made from dried hibiscus flowers.
What is the traditional name for this drink?
In Mexico, this refreshing floral drink is traditionally known as Agua de Jamaica.
What are the main ingredients in this recipe?
The recipe requires dried hibiscus flowers, water for steeping, granulated sugar or agave nectar, and cold distilled water.
How many calories are in one serving?
There are approximately 69 calories per serving of Chilled Hibiscus Delight.
Is this beverage vegan?
Yes, this drink is vegan-friendly as it consists of flowers, water, and plant-based sweeteners.
How long do I need to boil the hibiscus flowers?
The flowers should be added to boiling water and cooked for 2 minutes before being removed from the heat.
How long should the hibiscus flowers steep?
After boiling, let the flowers steep in the hot water for 30 minutes to extract their rich color and flavor.
What sweetener can I use instead of granulated sugar?
You can substitute granulated sugar with agave nectar to sweeten the beverage.
How long should I chill the drink before serving?
For the best flavor and refreshment, the Agua de Jamaica should be chilled in the refrigerator for about 4 hours.
How do I serve Chilled Hibiscus Delight?
Pour the chilled drink over ice in tall glasses for a refreshing experience.
What are some recommended garnishes?
Garnish the drink with fresh mint leaves or a slice of lime for an extra zing.
Is there any fat in this drink?
No, this recipe contains 0g of fat.
How many carbohydrates does this drink contain?
Each serving contains approximately 17g of carbohydrates.
Does this drink contain any protein?
No, this beverage contains 0g of protein.
What is the flavor profile of Agua de Jamaica?
It has a tangy sweetness and a vibrant floral profile, often compared to cranberry juice.
How much water is used for the initial steeping concentrate?
The recipe uses 4 cups of water to create the initial hibiscus concentrate.
How much cold water is added after straining?
Add 4 cups of cold distilled water to dilute the hibiscus concentrate.
Should the saucepan be covered during steeping?
Yes, cover the saucepan during the 30-minute steeping process to help extract the flavor.
What do I do with the flowers after steeping?
Strain the mixture through a fine sieve and discard the used flowers.
When should I add the sugar?
Add the sugar while the liquid is still warm after straining, stirring until it is fully dissolved.
Can I adjust the sweetness levels?
Yes, after diluting with cold water, taste the drink and add more sugar or agave if needed.
Is this drink suitable for children?
Yes, it is a non-alcoholic, sweet, and refreshing drink that is popular with both kids and adults.
What color is Chilled Hibiscus Delight?
The drink has a deep, beautiful crimson hue.
What type of water is recommended for dilution?
The recipe specifically recommends using cold distilled water for the final dilution.
Is hibiscus rich in antioxidants?
Yes, hibiscus flowers are known for being antioxidant-rich.
How many total ingredients are required?
The recipe uses a total of 4 ingredients: hibiscus flowers, water, sugar, and cold water.
Is this a good summer drink?
Absolutely, its refreshing and tangy nature makes it a perfect beverage for summer barbecues.
What equipment is needed to make this?
You will need a large saucepan, a fine sieve for straining, and a pitcher or bowl for mixing.
Can this be made ahead of time?
Yes, it is best made ahead of time as it requires 4 hours of chilling.
What type of hibiscus flowers should I use?
The recipe calls for dried hibiscus flowers, which are commonly found in Mexican markets or health food stores.