Name: Hibiscus Iced Tea Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 3 h 15 min
Cuisine: International
Ingredients: 8 cups water; 8 bags hibiscus tea (such as Red Zinger) or 3 tablespoons dried hibiscus flowers; 2 cups apple juice, lemonade, or ginger ale (choose one); Ice; Mint leaves, for garnish; Lime wedges, for garnish

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Introduction

Hibiscus iced tea is a vibrant, refreshing drink that’s perfect for warm days. With its beautiful deep red color and tart flavor, it offers a delicious alternative to traditional iced teas. This simple recipe combines hibiscus tea with a fruity twist for a cooling beverage everyone will enjoy.

The image shows two clear glass jars filled with bright red drink and ice cubes. The jar in front has a sprig of fresh green mint leaves on top and a thin slice of lime inside near the middle. The drink looks cold and refreshing with several ice cubes floating in it. The jars sit on a white marbled surface with some ice cubes scattered around. In the background, there are lime wedges and green leaves adding a fresh touch. The setting is clean and bright with a soft white background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 cups water
8 bags hibiscus tea (like Red Zinger) or 3 tablespoons dried hibiscus flowers
2 cups apple juice, lemonade, or ginger ale
Ice
Mint leaves and lime wedges, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: In a kettle or saucepan, bring the 8 cups of water to a boil.
Step 2: When the water is boiling, remove it from heat and add the hibiscus tea bags or dried hibiscus flowers. Let steep for 10 minutes, then remove the tea bags or strain out the flowers.
Step 3: Allow the tea to cool until it can be poured into a pitcher. Refrigerate until fully chilled.
Step 4: Just before serving, stir in 2 cups of apple juice, lemonade, or ginger ale for added flavor and sweetness.
Step 5: Serve the tea over ice and garnish with fresh mint leaves and lime wedges.

Tips & Variations

For extra sweetness, add a little honey or agave syrup while the tea is still warm.
Try garnishing with fresh berries or a splash of sparkling water for a fizzy twist.
Adjust the amount of juice or soda to taste depending on how tart or sweet you prefer your iced tea.

Storage

Store leftover hibiscus iced tea in a sealed pitcher or container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving, and add ice and fresh garnishes for the best flavor. Avoid storing with ice as it may dilute the tea over time.

How to Serve

A clear glass jar filled with several ice cubes is being filled with a bright red liquid from a transparent container with a green spout. The red drink cascades into the jar, creating small bubbles on the surface as it mixes with the ice, giving a fresh and cold impression. The scene is set on a white marbled surface with a soft light that highlights the clarity of the jar and the vibrant red color of the liquid. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh hibiscus flowers instead of dried or tea bags?

Yes, fresh hibiscus flowers can be used but you’ll need to adjust the quantity and steeping time. Typically, use about twice the amount and steep until the tea reaches a rich red color, usually about 15 minutes.

Is hibiscus tea safe to drink every day?

For most people, hibiscus tea is safe in moderate amounts and offers health benefits like antioxidants and vitamin C. However, it can lower blood pressure, so consult your healthcare provider if you have low blood pressure or are pregnant.