Strawberry Hibiscus Cold Brew
This stunning ruby-red cold brew combines the natural tartness of hibiscus with sweet, fragrant strawberries. It is caffeine-free, making it perfect for any time of day.
Instructions
- 1
Hull the strawberries and cut them in half. For more flavour, lightly muddle a few.
- 2
Add the dried hibiscus flowers to a large glass jar or pitcher.
- 3
Add the strawberries to the jar.
- 4
Pour the cold water over the hibiscus and strawberries. Stir to combine.
- 5
Cover and refrigerate for 8-12 hours, or overnight.
- 6
Strain the cold brew through a fine mesh strainer. The beautiful red colour will be vivid.
- 7
Taste and add a small drizzle of honey if you prefer less tartness. Serve over ice.
Tips
- •Hibiscus is naturally very tart. The strawberries help balance this, but you may still want to add a touch of sweetener.
- •This makes a gorgeous base for cocktails, try adding a splash of gin or vodka.
- •The vibrant colour makes this perfect for entertaining.
- •Freeze some of the finished cold brew in ice cube trays to avoid dilution.
Variations
- •Berry Hibiscus: Add raspberries or blackberries along with the strawberries.
- •Hibiscus Lemonade: Add the juice of 2 lemons after straining for extra tartness.
- •Sparkling Hibiscus: Top with sparkling water for a refreshing fizzy drink.
- •Hibiscus Rose: Add a teaspoon of dried rose petals for a floral note.
The Story Behind the Recipe
Hibiscus tea, known as *Agua de Jamaica* in many parts of the world, is famous for its vibrant ruby-red hue and sharp, cranberry-like tartness. While it is often served hot, cold brewing hibiscus allows its complex floral notes to shine without the aggressive \"bite\" that can sometimes come from a rapid hot extraction.
The addition of fresh strawberries isn't just for sweetness—it creates a beautiful depth of flavor. As the strawberries macerate in the cold water over 8-12 hours, they release their fragrant oils and natural sugars, rounding off the hibiscus's sharp edges. This is a caffeine-free powerhouse that looks as good as it tastes.
Flavour Profile
Expect an initial explosion of tart, floral citrus from the hibiscus, immediately followed by the mellow, sun-ripened sweetness of strawberry. It is bold, zingy, and incredibly satisfying on a humid afternoon.
Perfect Pairings
This is a fantastic accompaniment to spicy food—the tartness cuts through heat brilliantly. Try it with tacos, Thai green curry, or even a simple cheese board featuring creamy brie or camembert.
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