Fresco De Jamaica Recipe
hibiscus iced tea.
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Ingredients
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Base
Sweetener
Brighteners & Finish
Method
Steep the hibiscus
- 1
- 2
Add hibiscus and steep
Remove from heat and add 1.5 cups dried hibiscus flowers to the hot water. Cover and let steep 10–15 minutes for bright color and pronounced tart flavor; steep up to 20 minutes for a stronger brew. Taste after 10 minutes to check intensity.
- 3
Strain the steeped hibiscus through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a heatproof pitcher or bowl, pressing gently on the solids to extract liquid. Discard or reserve the used flowers for compost.
Sweeten and balance
- 4
Sweeten while warm
While the hibiscus liquid is still warm (not boiling), stir in 3/4 cup granulated sugar until dissolved. If using simple syrup instead, stir in 1/4 cup and adjust to taste. Start with less; you can always add more when chilled.
- 5
Adjust acidity
Add 1/2 cup fresh lime juice to the sweetened hibiscus. Stir and taste. If it’s too tart, add up to 2 tablespoons more sugar or simple syrup. If too sweet, add a splash more lime juice or a tablespoon of water.
Chill and serve
- 6
Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature (about 20–30 minutes), then refrigerate until well chilled, at least 1 hour. For faster chilling, place the pitcher in an ice bath.
- 7
When ready to serve, fill glasses with ice (about 1 cup per 12-oz glass). Pour the chilled jamaica over ice, leaving room for garnish.
- 8
Garnish each glass with a lime slice and a mint sprig if using. Stir once and serve immediately. Store leftover jamaica covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days; stir or shake before serving as sediments may settle.