Agua de Jamaica: tart hibiscus tea
I remember the first time I had hibiscus tea. It was at a vegetarian beachfront restaurant. There was a cool breeze coming off the water. The server brought my "Agua de Jamaica" and I was absolutely floored by it's beautiful color.
I had no idea what it was. I have a bad habit of doing that. I just pick things off the menu because I like the name. But, you know, life is an adventure...
Besides "Jamaica"...maybe it had rum.
I don't remember the rest of the meal, but the water...it did not have rum...was like a cool, liquid breeze. It has a refreshing tartness like cranberry juice. This agua fresca, which is popular in Mexico, Central and South America, as well as the Caribbean, is sometimes spiced with ginger, cloves, cinnamon and lime. And, mostly in Jamaica, it's even served with rum.
As best as I can tell, the name comes from the fact that the hibiscus flowers were somehow associated with Jamaica where they grow abundantly. In México and much of Central America, the hibiscus flower is called Jamaica as well. In the US, the magenta-colored hibiscus flowers are dried and sold by the bag in Latin and Caribbean supermarkets and some healthy markets as well.
Studies have shown that consuming the tea allegedly lowers blood pressure, reduces blood sugar levels, and even helps with digestion...too much might act as a laxative, so enjoy it in moderation. It is also high in Vitamin C. Of course, as with all herbal preparations, you have to see what works for you. Even if it does nothing, it tastes delicious!
Normally, the tea is served cold, but it can be enjoyed hot as well, if you happen to live in a cold climate.
Hibiscus Tea (Agua de Jamaica)
Makes 1/2 gallon
- 1/2 cup of dried hibiscus flowers
- 8 cups of water
- 1 inch piece of fresh ginger, sliced thin
- 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
- 1/4 cup of honey
- 1/4 cup of fresh lime juice
- Bring the water and the dried flowers to a boil in a large pot.
- When the water comes to a boil, take the pot off the heat and add in the ginger slices and the cinnamon. Cover the pot.
- Let it seep for 20 minutes.
- Mix in the honey and the lime juice.
- Strain the tea and serve.
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| A hibiscus flower on the bush |
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| Dried flower, ready to use |
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| Let's make some Agua de Jamaica |
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