Ingredients
Directions
Heat 4 cups of water and dried hibiscus flowers on the stovetop on medium-high heat, bringing to a boil.
Once boiling, cover with a lid, reduce to a simmer, and heat for 10 minutes more.
Remove from the heat and allow the hibiscus concentrate to cool to room temperature.
Once cooled, strain through a colander into a large bowl or pitcher. Save the flowers for future use (see Chef’s Notes).
In a pitcher, combine the hibiscus concentrate, remaining water, pureed strawberries, coconut sugar, and coconut milk, if using. Stir until well combined.
If you plan to drink immediately, serve it over ice.
If you plan to save for later, store Strawberry Hibiscus Refresher, well-covered, in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Chef's Notes
Substitutions
Substitute coconut milk with cashew milk, soy milk, or your favorite creamy plant-based milk of choice.
If you are opting not to use milk, you can add 1 ½ cups of unsweetened coconut water, your favorite no-sugar-added fruit juice, or more water.
If using maple syrup in place of coconut sugar, reduce the measurement to 2–3 tablespoons, depending on the level of sweetness you prefer. Note that date paste is not recommended here as it makes the color unappealing and does not enhance the flavor.
Prep Ahead
Prepare the hibiscus flowers ahead of time. Check to ensure there are no pebbles or small pieces of debris. Place in a mesh strainer in a wide bowl, and soak in warm water for 5 minutes to allow any sand or grit to settle at the bottom of the bowl. Strain and rinse a few times until the water becomes lighter in color.
Puree the strawberries ahead of time: Use a high-speed blender, food processor, or immersion blender, and blend until smooth.
Where to Purchase Hibiscus Flowers
For this recipe, you will need to purchase dried whole hibiscus flowers, which can be easily found online or in Caribbean or Latin American markets. If you are unable to find dried whole hibiscus flowers, you can use hibiscus tea bags but note that the hibiscus concentrate may not be as strong depending on the blend.
How to use Hibiscus Flowers
Use them as the base for tacos.
Try them in your favorite Tex-Mex chili.
Use them to make a tangy jam.
Use them for tea or the base of tasty mocktails.
Storage
Store hibiscus refresher in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Ingredients
Directions
Heat 4 cups of water and dried hibiscus flowers on the stovetop on medium-high heat, bringing to a boil.
Once boiling, cover with a lid, reduce to a simmer, and heat for 10 minutes more.
Remove from the heat and allow the hibiscus concentrate to cool to room temperature.
Once cooled, strain through a colander into a large bowl or pitcher. Save the flowers for future use (see Chef’s Notes).
In a pitcher, combine the hibiscus concentrate, remaining water, pureed strawberries, coconut sugar, and coconut milk, if using. Stir until well combined.
If you plan to drink immediately, serve it over ice.
If you plan to save for later, store Strawberry Hibiscus Refresher, well-covered, in the refrigerator until ready to serve.