Refreshing Hibiscus Tea with Bay Leaf & Cinnamon (Agua de Jamaica)

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Refreshing Hibiscus Tea with Bay Leaf & Cinnamon (Agua de Jamaica)

A vibrant, deeply refreshing infusion that balances the tart, cranberry-like flavor of hibiscus flowers with the warm sweetness of cinnamon and the herbal depth of bay leaves. Served chilled, it makes for an incredibly hydrating tonic.

  • Prep time: 5 mins | Cook time: 15 mins

  • Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • 1 cup Dried hibiscus flowers (flor de Jamaica)

  • 4 cups Water

  • 1 Cinnamon stick

  • 1–2 Dried bay leaves

  • 2–3 tbsp Honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)

  • Ice cubes and fresh lime wheels for serving

Instructions

  1. Boil: In a medium saucepan, combine the 4 cups of water, cinnamon stick, and bay leaves. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat.

  2. Infuse: Stir in the dried hibiscus flowers and remove the pan from the heat. Cover tightly with a lid and let it steep for 12–15 minutes.

  3. Strain & Sweeten: Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve into a pitcher to remove the flowers and spices. While the tea is still warm, stir in your choice of sweetener until dissolved.

  4. Chill: Allow it to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until chilled. Serve over plenty of ice with a squeeze of fresh lime.

Notes & Tips

  • Don’t Over-boil: Boiling the hibiscus flowers directly for too long can bring out bitter, overly astringent notes. Steeping off the heat keeps the flavor clean and bright.

  • Make it Concentrated: You can brew this with half the water to create a strong concentrate. Keep it in the fridge and dilute it with sparkling water or club soda for an instant fizzy mocktail.

Benefits & Nutrition

  • Benefit: Hibiscus is naturally packed with antioxidants and properties that assist with lowering cholesterol, regulating blood pressure, removing excess fluids, and supporting kidney health. The addition of cinnamon helps support balanced blood sugar.

  • Nutritional Info (Per serving): ~45 kcal | Fats: 0g | Carbs: 11g | Protein: 0.5g

Q&A

  • Q: Can I drink this hot instead?

    • A: Absolutely! It functions beautifully as a cozy, warming winter tea when served hot straight after straining.

  • Q: How long does it stay fresh?

    • A: Stored in a sealed glass pitcher or jar in the refrigerator, it will keep its fresh flavor for up to 5–7 days.

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