Jamaica Concentrate

Elevate your beverage game with this vibrant and tangy Jamaica Concentrate, a traditional Mexican drink base made from dried hibiscus flowers. Bursting with bold floral notes and a ruby-red hue, this versatile concentrate is perfect for creating refreshing aguas frescas, cocktails, or mocktails. Infused with optional hints of citrus peel and a touch of cinnamon, it brings a delightful balance of tartness and subtle spice. With just 5 minutes of prep and a short simmer, you'll have a naturally caffeine-free, flavor-packed concentrate that can be stored in the fridge for up to two weeks. Customize your drinks by diluting it with water or sparkling water, and add a splash of lime juice for an extra zing. Perfect for summer gatherings or any occasion that calls for a refreshing twist!

Nutriscore Rating: 65/100

Prep Time:5 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 10

Ingredients

• 2 cups dried hibiscus flowers
• 5 cups water
• 1.5 cups granulated sugar
• 1 piece cinnamon stick (optional)
• 1 piece orange peel or lime peel (optional)

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the dried hibiscus flowers under cold water using a fine mesh sieve to remove any dirt or impurities.

Step 2

In a medium-sized pot, bring 5 cups of water to a boil over medium-high heat.

Step 3

Once the water is boiling, add the rinsed hibiscus flowers, cinnamon stick (if using), and orange or lime peel (if using). Stir to combine.

Step 4

Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 15 minutes. This allows the hibiscus flowers to release their vibrant color and tart flavor.

Step 5

After 15 minutes, remove the pot from heat and let the mixture cool slightly for about 5 minutes.

Step 6

Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a large bowl or pitcher, pressing down on the flowers to extract all the liquid. Discard the solids.

Step 7

Return the strained liquid to the pot and stir in the granulated sugar until fully dissolved. Heat gently over low heat if needed to help the sugar dissolve completely.

Step 8

Once the sugar is fully incorporated, let the concentrate cool to room temperature.

Step 9

Transfer the cooled concentrate to a sterilized glass jar or bottle and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Step 10

To serve, dilute 1 part Jamaica Concentrate with 3–4 parts cold water or sparkling water. Adjust sweetness to taste by adding more sugar or a squeeze of lime if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	2008.6 grams (2008.6g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1400

Total Fat 3.20g	4%
Saturated Fat 0.00g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.00g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 52mg	2%
Total Carbohydrate 360.20g	131%
Dietary Fiber 3.50g	13%
Total Sugars 333.10g
Protein 2.30g	5%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 1183mg	91%
Iron 44mg	242%
Potassium 69mg	1%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 1.9%

Protein: 0.6%

Carbs: 97.4%