hibiscus

type: herbal

origin: burkina faso

ingredients: hibiscus

caffeine: no-caffeine

price level: $$$$

Unlike ornamental hibiscus flowers, it is the calyx of the shrubby Hibiscus sabdariffa plant that is used for making a tangy-sweet herbal tea that is equally delicious brewed hot or iced. Harvested by hand when plump and juicy, hibiscus makes a full-bodied, crimson colored infusion with a flavor similar to tart cranberry. Hibiscus is used in culinary and drinks recipes by cultures spanning equatorial latitudes from Southeast Asia to the Caribbean. Wonderfully tart and fruity with notes of citrus and pomegranate.