Chilled hibiscus flower infusion, tangy and deeply refreshing.
About this recipe
Agua de jamaica is made from dried hibiscus flowers steeped in boiling water, then sweetened and served ice-cold. Its striking deep red colour and uniquely tart-sweet flavour make it one of the most popular aguas frescas across Mexico. Naturally rich in vitamin C, it is as healthy as it is delicious.
History & Origin
The Jamaica flower (Hibiscus sabdariffa) arrived in México from Africa during the colonial era, brought by slaves and merchants who landed at the ports of Veracruz and Acapulco. In México it found an ideal climate for cultivation, especially in Guerrero, Oaxaca and Puebla, and quickly became part of the local gastronomy as one of the three classic aguas frescas alongside horchata and tamarind. Beyond being a drink, in México jamaica is used to make jams, meat sauces and even jamaica enchiladas in Oaxaca. It is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, and recent studies have confirmed its properties for reducing blood pressure, making it a beverage as healthful as it is delicious.
Estimated cost
£5.93
Total cost
£0.74
Per serving
* Approximate prices based on UK supermarkets
Nutritional information per serving
120
Calories
1g
Protein
28g
Carbohydrates
0.5g
Fat
1g
Fibre
15mg
Sodium
* Approximate values. May vary depending on ingredients used.
Method
- 1
Rinse the hibiscus flowers under cold water to remove any dust or impurities.
- 2
Bring 1 litre of water to the boil in a saucepan. When it reaches a rolling boil, add the hibiscus flowers. Boil for 5 minutes, then turn off the heat.
💡 Do not boil the flowers for too long or the drink will become bitter. Five minutes is all you need to extract the colour and flavour.
- 3
Cover the pan and leave the infusion to steep for 15-20 minutes so the flowers release their full colour and flavour.
- 4
Strain through a fine sieve, pressing the flowers to extract all the liquid. Discard the flowers.
- 5
Add the remaining litre of cold water and the sugar. Stir well until the sugar dissolves. Taste and adjust the sweetness.
💡 For a more intense flavour, use only 1.5 litres of water in total.
- 6
Refrigerate until thoroughly chilled. Serve in glasses with plenty of ice.
Reviews for Hibiscus Water
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