Living in Florida there’s nothing quite like a cold glass of homemade iced tea on a warm afternoon. While traditional sweet tea is popular here I enjoy making this hibiscus version with fresh ginger and honey. It has become one of my favorite drinks to keep in the refrigerator.
I love making big batches so my family can enjoy it throughout the week. Especially after spending time outside or coming home from an adventure. It’s the kind of drink that feels special but takes very little effort to make.
Why Hibiscus?
Beyond the taste, which is naturally tart, floral and refreshing, hibiscus has some wonderful health benefits worth mentioning. It’s rich in antioxidants, naturally caffeine free and has been traditionally used to support healthy blood pressure. And that stunning deep ruby color? Completely natural. No artificial dyes needed.
Honestly though in our house it never lasts long enough to worry about storage. We like it that much.
Ingredients
• 4 cups water
• ½ cup dried hibiscus petals (or 4 hibiscus tea bags)
• 1 inch piece fresh ginger, sliced
• 4 whole cloves
• 2 to 3 tablespoons honey (adjust to taste)
• Juice of ½ lemon
• Ice cubes and lemon slices for serving
Instructions
1. Boil water in a saucepan.
2. Add hibiscus petals, ginger slices and cloves.
3. Simmer for 10 to 15 minutes until the tea is deep red and aromatic.
4. Remove from heat and strain into a pitcher.
5. Stir in honey while still warm then add lemon juice.
6. Let it cool then chill in the fridge for at least an hour.
7. Serve over ice with a slice of lemon or a sprig of mint.
A Few Tips
• The longer you simmer the deeper and more intense the flavor becomes. Start with 10 minutes for something lighter and go up to 15 for a bolder taste.
• Stir the honey in while the tea is still warm so it dissolves completely.
• Fresh ginger makes a real difference here. The warmth it adds balances the tartness of the hibiscus beautifully.
• Adjust the honey to your preference. Start with 2 tablespoons and add more if you like it sweeter.
Optional Twists
• Add a splash of sparkling water for a fizzy version
• Infuse with cinnamon or star anise for extra depth and warmth
• Use agave or maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan option
One Simple Step
Make a big batch on Sunday and keep it in the fridge all week. It’s the kind of simple homemade drink that makes you feel good about what you’re putting in your body. And it’s beautiful enough to serve to guests without any extra effort.
Organic Living By Sue 