Tuesday, December 16, 2008

Hibiscus Tea

hibiscus tea© by Haalo

These are dried Hibiscus calyces but depending on where you are, you might also know them as Sorrel, Jamaica, Roselle or Karkady. It's probably more common to find hibiscus used in fruit blends but it is worthwhile trying to find these whole flowers.

Hibiscus is high in Vitamin C, calcium, iron, niacin and riboflavin. It's even more beneficial property comes from the presence of Anthocyanin, a powerful antioxidant. Studies have shown that Hibiscus tea can help decrease the levels of bad cholesterol and decrease blood pressure.

To brew, the general rule is to use one calyces per person. You can also let it steep in either hot or cold water.

hibiscus tea© by Haalo

The resulting infusion is this gorgeous vivid red - it's slightly tart so I recommend adding a little sugar especially if you're making an iced tea.

9 comments

  1. beautiful! where can I find them in sydney

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  2. Where can I find them in the US? They are one of the ingredients of Red Zinger, which I like very much as iced tea.

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  3. Hmmm...I have hibiscus growing in my garden. Would I be able to harvest & dry them myself??? Is there a trick to it??? Thanks.

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  4. Thanks Joanne - i've bought online from www.teas.com.au and they have hibiscus (link)

    Hi Matriarchy - no idea about the US - google should help you there.

    Hi Nukiwi - you have to make sure that first it is the right hibiscus - these teas are made from Hibiscus sabdariffa - there is more information to be found here

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  5. We love iced hibiscus tea in the summer and never add sugar to it. We pour some into a thermos when we go for a bike ride. It's most refreshing especially on a hot day.

    -Elizabeth

    P.S. Matriarchy, in Toronto, we buy hibiscus flowers at a South American store that sells dried chilies, chocolate, etc. etc. - the label on the hibiscus is "Jamaica". Maybe there is a Mexican store near you that will have Jamaica.

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  6. Bugger...I think mine is a different variety. Might justify another trip to Aussie tho, since it's not easy finding this sort of thing in New Zealand.
    Thanks heaps. Have a great holiday.
    Cheers.

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  7. Hi NuKiwi - I can recommend www.teas.com.au as I've bought tea from them in the past - they do deliver internationally so that might be an easier solution for you.

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  8. That sounds like a tea for me! Thanks, Haalo! Greets from Brussels, Belgium!!

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  9. Thanks Sophie - hope you find some!

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