Recipe of the Day – Agua de Jamaica (Hibiscus)
Agua de Jamaica is an infusion of dried hibiscus flowers. It’s popular at any Mexican restaurant and household. My grandmother used to give us this agua fresca frequently since it does have diuretic properties as well as loads of Vitamin C.
Agua de Jamaica is tangy, refreshing and healthy. It is perfect for hot summers in Sonora and Arizona. With a little bit of lime juice it gives it a twist that you and your family will enjoy!
Jamaica is known around the world as hibiscus tea, it’s very popular due to its other benefits such as vitamin C, diuretic properties and it can even help with high blood pressure.
Where to Find Hibiscus Flower?
You can find dried hibiscus flower in any Mexican market, if you have a Food City in your neighborhood that’s almost a sure bet. I have also seen it in some Walmarts near Mexican neighborhoods, or you can order them here. If you are looking for a water dispenser, this is similar to the one I have.
Mexican Jamaica
Refreshing Dry Hibiscus Flower Infusion
- 3 quarts water
- 1 cup dried hibiscus flowers
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 lime ((optional))
Boil water and hibiscus flowers on a saucepan and bring to a boil. You don't need to put in all the water, only enough to cover the hibiscus flowers. Let it boil for 5 minutes and turn off the heat. Let it sit for 10 minutes.
Strain the water into a blender and discard the flowers, the water will be RED, almost burgundy. Add the sugar to the blender. This will give you a concentrated version of the final result. The water will still be hot, make sure you don't burn yourself.
TIP: At this point you can store this in the fridge and use it at a later time.
Put the mixture into your final container. Personally we use a glass beverage dispenser, I love the way it looks. Pour in the rest of the water.
TIP: You can also replace some of the water with loads of ice. Remember the lime? You can add lime juice, it gives it a different flavor that's also very refreshing.
