Ginger Jamaica Agua Fresca

Aqua Fresca (literally translated to "fresh water" or "cool water") is a refreshing  drink you'll find in every restaurant and market in Mexico and Central America.  There are many different types of Agua Fresca but one of the most popular types is Agua de Jamaica (pronounced ha-MY-cah), a vibrant red hibiscus iced tea drink. Hibiscus is as refreshing as it is beautiful and it's packed with antioxidants. Pure hibiscus has a tart flavor similar to cranberry juice so in Mexico it is most often also packed with sugar. We've turned to orange juice and low sugar, ginger syrup to sweeten and add flavor without packing in processed sugar. Want to make this a margarita? Just add tequila and triple sec. 

You can find dried hibiscus flowers in latin markets and sometimes in the latin section of your grocery store.

Ingredients:

• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 1/2 cup jamaica (culinary dried hibiscus flowers)
• 3 cups boiling water
• 1/2 cup orange juice (use blood orange juice for color)
• 1/4 cup ginger syrup
• Lots of Ice
• Orange Slices (for garnish)

Directions:

1. In a heat proof container like a canning jar, break the cinnamon sticks in half and throw them in the bottom of the jar, add the jamaica. Add 3 cups of boiling water and allow to steep for 30 minutes to 1 hour.

2. Strain the steeped hibiscus tea concentrate into a pitcher. Add ginger syrup, orange juice, and orange slices.  Add plenty of ice!