Agua De Jamaica Fresca Recipe

I absolutely love this recipe because it’s a refreshing twist on a classic that lets me indulge in a vibrant and tangy treat without feeling guilty. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it perfect for those spontaneous get-togethers with friends where I can impress them with my mixology skills!

Jamaica water is one of my favorite refreshing drinks. It combines the vibrant tartness of dried hibiscus flowers with a perfect balance of sweetness.

I love how the 1 cup of dried floral de Jamaica makes such a rich drink and such a rich color—crimson red. That is Jamaica.

Water is the base for all drinks. Four cups of water bring out the flavor.

You have to sweeten it to taste; I sweeten mine between half a cup and a full cup of sugar. Serve over ice.

Add lime juice for a really refreshing drink.

Ingredients

Hibiscus flowers that have been dried: They are high in antioxidants and have a naturally tangy, sour taste.

Sugar in granulated form: Imparts sweetness to the beverage; modify to achieve preferred sweetness.

Lime wedges: Contribute a zesty, citrusy quality; augment flavor intricacy.

The concentrated infusion’s blends and dilutes; it forms the hydrating base.

Ice cubes: Cool the beverage, making it ideal for refreshment in hot weather.

Ingredient Quantities

• 1 cup dried hibiscus flowers (flor de Jamaica)
• 4 cups water
• 1/2 to 1 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
• Additional 4 cups cold water
• Ice cubes (optional)
• Lime wedges (optional, for serving)

Instructions

1. Wash the dried hibiscus flowers with cold water to get rid of any imperfections.

2. In a medium pot, bring 4 cups of water to a rolling boil.

3. Place the rinsed hibiscus flowers into the pot of rapidly boiling water and take the pot off the heat.

4. Allow the dried hibiscus flowers to infuse their flavor into the hot water for approximately 20 to 30 minutes.

5. Pour the hibiscus-infused water through a sieve into a large pitcher, discarding the used petals.

6. Add 1/2 to 1 cup of granulated sugar to the hibiscus tea, adjusting to taste. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.

7. Combine with a stir in the pitcher 4 additional cups of cold water.

8. If necessary, adjust sweetness to taste, adding more sugar if you want it to be sweeter.

9. Place the Agua de Jamaica in the refrigerator for at least one hour to chill it.

10. Over ice cubes, if you desire, and with an igualito, an exact replica of the drink, served to party guests alongside the first.

The mocktail versions of this Cuban summer delight can be made in two simple steps:

1. Pour freshly made limeade over ice in a tall glass.

2. Top with the same amount of sparkling water.

Equipment Needed

1. Medium pot
2. Large pitcher
3. Sieve
4. Measuring cups
5. Stirring spoon
6. Refrigerator
7. Tall glass (for mocktail version)
8. Ice cube tray (optional)

FAQ

• Q: What is Agua de Jamaica?A: A Mexican drink that is refreshing and palatable relies on steeping “flora de Jamaica,” or hibiscus flowers, in H2O. Agua de Jamaica, to many, is a simple drink that is slightly tart, somewhat sweet, and totally satisfying.
• Q: Can I use fresh hibiscus flowers instead of dried?Hibiscus flowers that are fresh are not generally employed for this beverage, whereas dried hibiscus flowers furnish just the concentrated flavor that is most desired. For optimal results, confine your use to dried materials.
• Q: How long should the hibiscus flowers steep?A: Hibiscus flowers should be steeped for a minimum of 10-15 minutes in order to extract the complete flavor and color.
• Q: Can I make this drink ahead of time?Q: How long can Agua de Jamaica be stored, and how should it be prepared if made in advance?

  A: Agua de Jamaica can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. It just needs to be stirred very well before serving.

• Q: How can I adjust the sweetness?A: Start with 1/2 cup of sugar and add in more gradually, tasting as you go, until the sweetness is to your liking.
• Q: Are there any variations of this recipe?You can add a dash of lime juice for a citrusy spin or infuse with spices like cinnamon or ginger for added depth.
• Q: Can I serve it hot?A: While Agua de Jamaica is traditionally served cold, it can also be enjoyed as a warm tea. To prepare, serve immediately after steeping and add sweetener to taste.

Substitutions and Variations

Granulated sugar: You can use agave syrup or honey in equal amounts. For a sugar-free option, use stevia.
Cold water, an additional 4 cups: for a frothy surprise, switch it out for sparkling water.
Frozen berries: Use these in place of ice cubes for a delicious fruit-infused beverage.
Lime wedges: For a different citrus note, use lemon wedges instead.

Pro Tips

1. For a more intense flavor, let the hibiscus flowers steep for a little longer, but avoid going past 45 minutes to prevent the tea from becoming too bitter.

2. Consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or a few cloves while steeping for an added layer of flavor that complements the tartness of the hibiscus.

3. Experiment with different sweeteners, such as honey or agave syrup, for a unique twist on the traditional recipe.

4. Incorporate fresh fruit slices, such as oranges or strawberries, into the pitcher with the cold water to add a refreshing fruity note.

5. For an adult version, consider adding a splash of rum or tequila to individual servings for a hibiscus cocktail.