Agua de Jamaica is a vibrant and refreshing Mexican beverage made from dried hibiscus flowers. Its deep red color and tangy flavor make it a popular choice for quenching your thirst on a hot day. Whether you’re looking to enjoy it at a summer party or as a cooling drink after a long day, Agua de Jamaica is simple to make and absolutely delicious.
Check for any debris or small stones and remove them.
Rinse the hibiscus flowers under cold water to remove any excess dust.
Boil Water and Add Hibiscus Flowers
In a large pot, bring 8 cups of water to a rolling boil.
Once the water is boiling, carefully add the rinsed hibiscus flowers to the pot.
For an extra layer of flavor, you can also add a cinnamon stick to the boiling water with the hibiscus flowers.
Simmer and Steep
Reduce the heat to low and let the hibiscus flowers simmer for about 10-15 minutes. The water will turn a vibrant red color.
Sweeten the Hibiscus Tea
Add 1 cup of granulated sugar to the pot, or adjust the sweetness to your liking.
Stir the sugar into the tea until it dissolves completely.
Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes to ensure the sugar is well incorporated.
Strain and Cool
Turn off the heat and remove the pot from the stove.
Using a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth, strain the hibiscus tea into a pitcher or jug. This will remove the hibiscus flowers and any solid particles.
Allow the tea to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate it for at least 1 hour or until it's chilled.