Hibiscus Limeade
This vibrant Hibiscus Limeade combines the tart-floral notes of dried hibiscus flowers with fresh lime juice and a touch of sweetness, creating a stunning ruby-red beverage perfect for hot days, gatherings, or a refreshing everyday treat.
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried hibiscus flowers also known as flor de Jamaica
- 6 cups water divided
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar adjust to taste
- 1 cup freshly squeezed lime juice from approximately 8-10 limes
- 1 lime thinly sliced for garnish
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish optional
- Ice cubes
Instructions
- Prepare the hibiscus base: In a medium saucepan, combine the dried hibiscus flowers with 4 cups of water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes until the water turns a deep ruby red.
- Add sweetness: Stir in the sugar until completely dissolved, then remove from heat and let steep for an additional 5 minutes to extract maximum flavor.
- Strain the mixture: Pour the hibiscus tea through a fine-mesh strainer into a heat-resistant pitcher, pressing on the flowers with a wooden spoon to extract all the liquid. Discard the used flowers.
- Cool down: Add the remaining 2 cups of cold water to the hibiscus concentrate and stir well. Allow the mixture to come to room temperature.
- Add the lime juice: Stir in the freshly squeezed lime juice, mixing thoroughly to combine. Taste and adjust sweetness if necessary by adding more dissolved sugar.
- Chill thoroughly: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until completely cold. The flavors will meld and develop during this time.
- Serve with style: Fill glasses with ice, pour in the Hibiscus Limeade, and garnish with lime slices and mint leaves if desired. Stir gently before enjoying.
Notes
- For a more intense hibiscus flavor, you can steep the flowers for up to 15 minutes.
- Dried hibiscus flowers can be found in Latin American markets, health food stores, or online.
- This limeade keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days in a sealed container.
- For a sparkling version, replace half the cold water with club soda just before serving.
- To make a simple cocktail, add 1.5 oz of white rum, tequila, or vodka per serving.
- Honey or agave nectar can be substituted for granulated sugar (use about 2/3 the amount).