Agua de Jamaica
Chilled hibiscus tea sweetened with sugar. One of Mexico's best-loved aguas frescas.
Built in glass · Highball · Easy · about 2 minutes · alcohol-free
Ingredients
- 180 ml Hibiscus tea (chilled)
- 20 ml Sugar syrup
- 10 ml Fresh lime juice
- Lime wheel (garnish)
Method
- Ice the glass
- Pour 180 ml hibiscus tea (chilled) into the glass
- Pour 20 ml sugar syrup into the glass
- Add 10 ml fresh lime juice
- Garnish
Tip
Brew the hibiscus strong. It will be diluted by the ice.
About the Agua de Jamaica
Agua de Jamaica is one of the classic aguas frescas of Mexico. Dried hibiscus flowers arrived in Mexico from West Africa through Spanish colonial trade.
The agua fresca family. Aguas frescas ("fresh waters") are sold from big glass jars across Mexico and Central America. They are made from fruit, flowers, seeds or grains blended with water and a little sugar. Hibiscus, tamarind and horchata are three of the best loved.
Agua de Jamaica FAQ
What's in an Agua de Jamaica?
180 ml hibiscus tea (chilled), 20 ml sugar syrup, 10 ml fresh lime juice, garnished with lime wheel.
Does an Agua de Jamaica contain alcohol?
No. It is completely alcohol-free, so it suits drivers, non-drinkers and anyone pacing themselves.
Should I shake or stir an Agua de Jamaica?
Neither. Build it straight in the glass over ice, then give it one gentle stir.
What glass do you serve an Agua de Jamaica in?
A highball, about 350 ml. Serve it over ice. No highball? Use any tall, straight-sided glass.
