Hibiscus Tea Recipe – Mint & Lemon Iced Tea – Easy Summer Cooler

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Hibiscus Tea Recipe – Mint & Lemon Iced Tea – Easy Summer Cooler

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for a refreshing drink to beat the Indian summer heat. And honestly? This hibiscus tea is my absolute go-to. It’s vibrant, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make. I first stumbled upon this recipe while trying to recreate a drink I had at a little cafe in Goa, and I’ve been perfecting it ever since! Let’s get brewing, shall we?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This hibiscus tea isn’t just delicious; it’s a little burst of sunshine in a glass. It’s perfect for a hot afternoon, a relaxing evening, or even a festive gathering. Plus, it comes together in under 10 minutes! Seriously, what’s not to love? It’s a beautiful ruby red color, naturally tart and tangy, and the mint and lemon just elevate everything.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this gorgeous hibiscus tea:

• 2 tablespoons dried hibiscus petals (about 15-20 grams)
• 2 cups water (500ml)
• 1-2 teaspoons honey (or to taste – about 7-14 grams)
• 1-2 mint leaves, plus extra for garnish
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (about 15ml)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! Hibiscus flowers are packed with Vitamin C and antioxidants – a little health boost with your refreshment! You can find dried hibiscus petals at most Indian grocery stores, or easily online.

Now, about the honey… feel free to experiment! I love using wildflower honey for a floral note, but you can use any honey you prefer. My grandmother always used jaggery in her hibiscus tea (called lal chai in some parts of India), which gives it a lovely caramel-like flavor. It’s a fantastic alternative if you’re looking for something a little different.

And did you know hibiscus tea is enjoyed in different ways across India? In some regions, they add a pinch of spice, while others prefer it super sweet. It’s all about personal preference!

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s make some tea!

1. First, if you’re using hibiscus flowers (rather than petals), gently remove the stamens and calyx. Make sure your dried petals are clean – a quick rinse is usually enough.
2. Bring the water to a boil in a saucepan. Once it’s bubbling, take it off the heat. We don’t want to cook the hibiscus, just steep it!
3. Add the hibiscus petals to the hot water. Now, for the magic! Let it steep for 10-15 minutes. You’ll see the water turn a beautiful, deep red color.
4. Strain the tea into your favorite glasses. This is where a fine-mesh strainer comes in handy.
5. Stir in the honey, mint leaves (gently muddle them a bit to release the flavor!), and lemon juice. Give it a good stir until the honey dissolves.
6. Serve immediately while it’s warm, or chill in the fridge for a couple of hours for a super refreshing iced tea.

Expert Tips

• Don’t over-steep the hibiscus! It can become bitter if left for too long. 10-15 minutes is perfect.
• Muddling the mint leaves releases their aroma and flavor. Just gently press them with the back of a spoon.
• Adjust the honey and lemon juice to your liking. Some days I like it sweeter, some days I like it more tart!

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

• Vegan Adaptation: Swap the honey for agave nectar or maple syrup. They work beautifully!
• Spice Level: Add a small slice of ginger or a pinch of cinnamon while steeping for a warming, spiced hibiscus tea. My friend, Priya, swears by adding a cardamom pod!
• Festival Adaptations: This tea is amazing during summer festivals like Baisakhi or Onam. Serve it with traditional snacks for a complete treat.
• Adjusting Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet tea, start with 1 teaspoon of honey and add more to taste. You can also use a sugar-free sweetener.

Serving Suggestions

This hibiscus tea is wonderful on its own, but it also pairs well with:

• Light snacks like namak pare or mathri.
• Fresh fruit salad.
• A slice of lemon cake.
• Simply enjoyed while relaxing with a good book!

Storage Instructions

If you have any leftover hibiscus tea (which is unlikely!), you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The flavor might mellow slightly, but it will still be delicious.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions:

What are the health benefits of hibiscus tea?

Hibiscus tea is packed with antioxidants and Vitamin C, and it’s been linked to lower blood pressure and improved cholesterol levels. It’s a delicious way to boost your health!

Can I use fresh hibiscus flowers instead of dried?

Yes, you can! Use about 1/4 cup of fresh hibiscus petals per 2 cups of water.

How can I adjust the tartness of the tea?

Add more or less lemon juice to control the tartness.

What’s the best way to strain the hibiscus tea?

A fine-mesh strainer works best to remove all the petals. You can also line the strainer with cheesecloth for extra clarity.

Can this tea be made ahead of time and stored?

Yes, you can make the hibiscus tea concentrate ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just add the honey, mint, and lemon juice when you’re ready to serve.

Enjoy your homemade hibiscus tea! I hope it brings a little bit of sunshine to your day. Let me know in the comments if you try it and what variations you come up with!