Agua de Jamaica (Hibiscus water) is one of the most popular drinks among the agua frescas in Mexico. This tangy drink is refreshing, packed with antioxidants, and super easy to make. If you have yet to try a tall glass of Jamaica, here I will show you how to make it. I highly recommend giving it a try!
Jamaica Agua Fresca in Mexico
Agua de Jamaica (pronounced ha-MY-cah) is found year-round in beach towns in Mexico. You will find it in big glass containers next to horchata, melon, tamarind and other flavors of agua frescas in street stands, small restaurants and speciality stores just for these kinds of drinks. The hibiscus plant (also known as Roselle, Sour tea, and Red sorrel) originated in North Africa and Southeast Asia and was eventually introduced to Mexico.
Some believe that the hibiscus plant was brought to Mexico around the 1500s from China; others think that it came from the not-so-distant country of Jamaica (hence the name). Nowadays, the plant thrives in many states in Mexico, like Guerrero, Michoacán, and Oaxaca, producing thousands of tons a year.
And even though the Hibiscus drink doesn't have roots in Mexico, it has become an indispensable part of our gastronomy. In addition to making Jamaica Agua fresca, the hibiscus florets are used to make popsicles, quesadillas (yes, believe it or not), salsas, jams, and desserts.
Matter of fact, we love hibiscus so much that, according to the site for Mexican Agriculture (Agricultura de Mexico), every year, the country harvests around 7,000 tons of Jamaica. So, if you have yet tried this delicious drink, Agua de Jamaica is a healthy beverage that you should definitely try.
Frequently asked questions about Agua de Jamaica
Before I share my recipe, I will answer the questions I usually get about this homemade recipe.
What is agua de Jamaica?
Agua de Jamaica (pronounced ha-MY-kuh in Spanish) is a refreshing and tangy drink made with dried roselle hibiscus, also known as Hibiscus sabdariffa, and very popular in Mexico. The process of making the Agua de Jamaica is very simple and takes about 15 minutes with a few ingredients.
Is Jamaica's drink healthy?
Yes, it is. The hibiscus petals contain antioxidants, vitamin C and have many potential health benefits, including lowering blood pressure and cholesterol and aiding weight management. It is essential to mention that reducing the amount of sugar in your drink is best to enjoy its benefits. So if you're looking for a healthy and delicious beverage to add to your diet, try Jamaica drink!
What is the Mexican drink Jamaica made of?
The traditional Jamaica drink (hibiscus tea) only requires ingredients like dry hibiscus flowers (flor de jamaica), water, sugar and ice. However, I have seen people include spices like allspice, cinnamon stick, nutmeg, cloves, and lime juice according to their taste.
What does Jamaica taste like?
The Hibiscus drink has a unique, tart and slightly earthy flavor. It has a fruity taste similar to cranberry juice or cherries, with a slight hint of floral notes. The Jamaica drink is known for its vibrant red color, which comes from the dried flower used to make it. Overall, jamaica is a refreshing and flavorful drink that can be a healthy alternative to soft drinks.
How long is agua de Jamaica good for?
Agua de Jamaica can last for up to 3 days if stored properly in the refrigerator. After that, it may start to lose its flavor and freshness. It is always best to consume it as soon as possible for the best taste experience.
How to Make Agua de Jamaica
Ingredients
Here is the list of ingredients you need for this recipe:
- Hibiscus dried flowers
- Water
- Sugar
- Ice
Instructions:
This recipe is simple and straightforward, so there is no need to separate the recipe into steps.
- Place the dried hibiscus flowers in a small pot with the 3 cups of water. Bring them to a boil. Boil them for about 2-3 minutes over medium-high heat. (Please check the ingredients list below)
- Set aside for at least 4 hours; you can also make this step overnight.
- Strain the liquid into a pitcher and pour the 4 cups of cold water and sugar.
- You can adjust the added water if you feel it is too start to your palate.
- Stir, add ice cubes and let it chill. Enjoy.
Notes:
It is recommended to let the hibiscus mixture rest for at least 4 hours for a well-blended flavor. However, you can make your drink right away.
What to Serve with Jamaica Agua Fresca
Jamaica agua fresca is a beverage to enjoy by itself or with some garnishes like fresh mint leaves or a few lime wedges. In Mexico, Agua de Jamaica is a drink better to enjoy with your lunch (comida del medio dia), like a tasty milanesa de res or sopa de albondigas. If you want a light meal to serve your Jamaica, try canned tuna Mexican style for a healthy lunch or dinner.
More Authentic Mexican Food Recipes
And in case you would like to try other Mexican food recipes besides this delicious agua fresca, you can check my other recipes:
If this recipe was of any help to you, come back to let me know your experience. Please leave us a comment below and tell us all about it!
-Mely
For more recipes, follow Us on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest. In español Visit Us at Mexico en mi cocina
📖 Recipe
Agua de Jamaica
Ingredients
- 1 ¼ cup of Hibiscus Jamaica Flowers
- 3 cups of water
- 4 cups of water to make 2 quarts of the final drink
- ½ cup of sugar
- Ice cubes
Instructions
- This recipe is simple and straightforward, so there is no need to separate the recipe into steps.
- Place the dried hibiscus flowers in a small pot with the 3 cups of water. Bring them to a boil. Boil them for about 2-3 minutes over medium-high heat. (Please check the ingredients list below)
- Set aside for at least 4 hours; you can also make this step overnight.
- Strain the liquid into a pitcher and pour the 4 cups of cold water and sugar.
- You can adjust the added water if you feel it is too start to your palate.
- Stir, add ice cubes and let it chill. Enjoy.
Notes
- It is recommended to let the hibiscus mixture rest for at least 4 hours for a well-blended flavor. However, you can make your drink right away.
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