Ingredients
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1 cup dried hibiscus flowers (available at Latin or health food stores)
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5 cups water
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1/2 to 3/4 cup sugar (or to taste)
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2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
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Ice cubes (for serving)
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Fresh lime slices (for garnish)
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Fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
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Rinse Hibiscus Flowers: Rinse the dried hibiscus flowers under cold water to remove any debris. Set aside.
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Boil Water: In a medium saucepan, bring 5 cups of water to a boil.
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Steep Hibiscus Flowers: Once the water reaches a boil, remove it from heat and pour it over the hibiscus flowers in a large bowl. Let them steep for 10-15 minutes, releasing the beautiful red color.
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Strain: After steeping, strain the liquid through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a pitcher, discarding the flowers.
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Sweeten: Add sugar to the strained hibiscus water. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved. Adjust sweetness to taste.
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Add Lime Juice: Stir in the fresh lime juice for a tangy twist.
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Chill & Serve: Refrigerate the agua fresca for at least 1 hour to chill. Serve over ice, garnished with lime slices and mint leaves (optional).
Notes
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Adjusting Sweetness: You can reduce the sugar or use natural sweeteners like honey or agave for a healthier option.
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Infuse Extra Flavors: Add a cinnamon stick or a couple of cloves while steeping for an added spicy warmth.
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Serve Cold: This drink tastes best when chilled. Add ice cubes just before serving to keep it extra refreshing.
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Alternative Ingredients: For a tropical twist, try adding pineapple juice or fresh fruit chunks to your agua fresca.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Steeping, Straining
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Vegetarian