Karkade – Hibiscus Tea
Karkade - Hibiscus Tea, is a deliciously tangy beverage cherished in many cultures around the world. This vibrant red drink is not only visually stunning but also packed with health benefits, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. Whether you're looking to cool down on a hot day or need a warm, comforting drink, Karkade is the perfect choice. Let’s dive into the simplicity and beauty of making this refreshing tea.
Iced Hibiscus Tea - The drink of Summer
What is Karkade - Hibiscus Tea?
Karkade, also known as hibiscus tea, has its origins deeply rooted in ancient civilizations, particularly in Africa. Karkade, is believed to be native to West Africa, where it was traditionally used for both culinary and medicinal purposes. It is a traditional beverage made from the dried calyces of the hibiscus flower, particularly Hibiscus sabdariffa.
This tea is famous for its striking deep red colour and tart, cranberry-like flavour. It has been popular for centuries in countries such as Egypt and Sudan, where it is often served during special occasions and celebrations. Popular in many cultures around the world, Karkade can be enjoyed both hot and cold.
Karkade & I
As I am married to an Egyptian, this is the one drink my husband most asks for as soon as we experience a hot day in the UK. However, last summer we went on a family trip travelling across Egypt while I was 20 weeks pregnant with our second child. I had my first sip of Iced Hibiscus Tea in Egypt in old Cairo while walking through the bazaar with my family. The lovely older uncles walk around shouting "Kar-ka-deh" and they pour the drink out of the carafe.
I only had a sip due to being pregnant, although they assured me it was fine to drink but I knew it may drop my blood pressure and make me unwell while pregnant. They didn't know that I was very familiar with Hibiscus tea as it is made and served warm, regularly in Iran and in Persian homes.
Health Benefits of Karkade
Besides its refreshing taste, it is celebrated for its numerous health benefits, including being rich in antioxidants, particularly vitamin C, it helps boost the immune system and protect against oxidative stress. The tea is also known for its potential to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, promoting heart health.
Additionally, Karkade has anti-inflammatory properties that can aid in reducing inflammation and support overall well-being. It is also a natural diuretic, which helps in detoxifying the body and supporting kidney health. With its combination of health-boosting properties, Karkade is not only a refreshing drink but also a beneficial addition to a healthy lifestyle.
Deliciously warm and satisfying
Ingredients for Egyptian Karkade
Filtered Water - to ensure good flavour and a clear colour.
Dried Hibiscus flowers - the dried flowers used for this Egyptian Karkade is readily available in supermarkets and middle eastern stores.
Sweetener of choice - hibiscus is quite tart and has a naturally sharp, cranberry-like tartness. Adding sweetener helps to balance this tartness, making the beverage more palatable for those who might find the unsweetened version too sour. Honey or sugar is the mostly used when making this drink and although exact measurements are included in this recipe; feel free to adjust this to your taste.
Lemons and Mint - both of these or each of them individually can brighten up any drink and give it a refreshing taste.
How to make Iced Hibiscus Tea
Rinse the Hibiscus Flowers - Place the dried hibiscus flowers in a colander and rinse them under cold water to remove any dust or impurities.
Boil the Water - In a large pot, bring 6 cups of water to a boil.
Add Hibiscus - Once the water is boiling, add the rinsed hibiscus flowers. If you wish, add a cinnamon stick, ginger slices, or cloves to enhance the flavour.
Steep the Tea - Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer for about 10-15 minutes. The longer you let it steep, the stronger the flavour will be.
Sweeten the Tea - Strain the hibiscus tea into a large pitcher, removing the flowers and any added spices. While the tea is still warm, stir in the sugar until it is fully dissolved. Adjust the amount of sugar to your taste preference.
Serve Cold - Once the Tea has cooled down, pour into glasses over ice with an optional garnish of lemon and mint.
Serve Warm Hibiscus Tea- Instead of letting it cool down, pour the warm Karkade into mugs and enjoy. Optionally, you can garnish with a slice of lemon or a sprig of mint.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does this drink keep?
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Recipes You Must Try
- 1 cup Dried Hibiscus flower
- 6 cup Filtered Water
- 1 cup Sugar
- Fresh mint leaves to Garnish
In a large pot, bring 6 cups of water to a boil.
Once the water is boiling, add the rinsed hibiscus flowers. If you wish, add a cinnamon stick, ginger slices, or cloves to enhance the flavour.
Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer for about 10-15 minutes. The longer you let it steep, the stronger the flavour will be.
Strain the hibiscus tea into a large pitcher, removing the flowers and any added spices. While the tea is still warm, stir in the sugar until it is fully dissolved. Adjust the amount of sugar to your taste preference.
Once the Tea has cooled down, pour into glasses over ice with an optional garnish of lemon and mint.
I'm Nelly, the recipes I share here are inspired by the people, cultures and places beloved to me. Peanutswirls represents my love for food, cooking and hosting. I hope to share with you a taste of the Middle East influnced by my upbringing in the West.
I can't wait to see what we cook together.
