Agua de Jamaica (ha-MY-ka) Mexican Hibiscus Water Drink Recipe
Brewed from dried hibiscus (known in Mexico as Jamaica flowers), this wonderfully exotic drink is a perfect refresher on hot summer days. Add a pretty lime garnish or some sugared flower petals and a sprig of mint.
Ingredients
| 2 | cups | dried Jamaica flowers, rinsed and cleaned of debris* |
| 8+ | cups | water |
| 11/2+ | cups | sugar |
| ~ | ice cubes |
* Jamaica flowers are also sold as Sorrell blossoms and are found in Mexican markets and online stores.
Directions
- Place the rinsed blossoms in a medium saucepan, cover with the water, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to a lively simmer and cook for 5 minutes.
- Remove the mixture from the heat and set it aside to teep at room temperature for 4 hours. Pour through a mesh strainer into a container.
- Add the sugar and stir until dissolved.
- The mixture will be quite strong. Serve it over ice, diluting with additional water and sweetening as needed to suit your taste.
Preparation Time:
20 minutes plus 4 hours downtime.
