Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Naturally Caffeine-Free: Enjoy any time of day without the jitters.
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Rich in Antioxidants: Hibiscus and strawberries are both packed with beneficial compounds.
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Customizable Sweetness: Adjust the sweetness to your preference.
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Beautiful Presentation: Its deep red hue makes it as visually appealing as it is tasty.
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Versatile: Serve it at gatherings, picnics, or as a daily refreshment.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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3 cups sliced strawberries
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2 cups water (for strawberry syrup)
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1 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
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3 family-sized hibiscus tea bags
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3 cups boiling water
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8 cups cold water
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Juice of 1 lemon
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Ice cubes
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Fresh strawberries and lemon slices for garnish
Directions
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Prepare Strawberry Syrup: In a saucepan, combine sliced strawberries, 2 cups of water, and sugar. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes until the mixture thickens and turns deep red. Strain the syrup into a large pitcher, pressing the strawberries to extract juice. Discard solids.
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Brew Hibiscus Tea: Steep hibiscus tea bags in 3 cups of boiling water for 5 minutes. Remove tea bags and, if desired, add additional sugar to taste.
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Combine and Chill: Pour the brewed hibiscus tea into the pitcher with the strawberry syrup. Add 8 cups of cold water and lemon juice. Stir well and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
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Serve: Fill glasses with ice, pour the chilled tea over, and garnish with fresh strawberries and lemon slices.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: Approximately 14 servings
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Prep Time: 30 minutes
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Chill Time: 2 hours
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Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Variations
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Mint Infusion: Add fresh mint leaves during the steeping process for a cooling effect.
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Berry Blend: Incorporate other berries like raspberries or blueberries for a mixed berry flavor.
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Spiced Twist: Add a cinnamon stick or a few slices of ginger during brewing for a spiced version.
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Sparkling Version: Replace some of the cold water with sparkling water for a fizzy drink.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Store the iced tea in a sealed pitcher in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
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Freezing: Pour into ice cube trays and freeze. Use the cubes to chill future drinks without dilution.
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Reheating: Not recommended, as this beverage is best enjoyed cold.
FAQs
What are the health benefits of hibiscus tea?
Hibiscus tea is rich in antioxidants and has been linked to lowered blood pressure and cholesterol levels. It’s also known for its anti-inflammatory properties.
Can I use dried hibiscus flowers instead of tea bags?
Yes, you can substitute ½ cup of dried hibiscus flowers for the tea bags. Ensure you strain the tea after steeping to remove the flowers.
Is it necessary to add sugar?
No, adding sugar is optional. You can adjust the sweetness to your preference or use natural sweeteners like honey or agave syrup.
Can I make this tea ahead of time?
Absolutely. In fact, the flavors meld and improve after a few hours. It’s recommended to chill the tea for at least 2 hours before serving.
How can I make this tea more tart?
Increase the amount of hibiscus or add a bit more lemon juice to enhance the tartness.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, frozen strawberries work well. Thaw them before making the syrup to ensure proper consistency.
Is this tea suitable for children?
Yes, it’s a caffeine-free and refreshing beverage suitable for all ages.
Can I add alcohol to this recipe?
Certainly. Adding a splash of vodka or rum can transform it into a delightful cocktail.
How long does the strawberry syrup last?
The syrup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Ensure it’s kept in an airtight container.
What other fruits pair well with hibiscus?
Fruits like mango, pineapple, and citrus fruits complement hibiscus’s tart flavor beautifully.
Conclusion
Strawberry Hibiscus Iced Tea is a delightful fusion of fruity and floral notes, perfect for quenching your thirst on warm days. Its vibrant color and refreshing taste make it a standout beverage for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply relaxing at home, this iced tea is sure to impress.
PrintStrawberry Hibiscus Iced Tea
Strawberry Hibiscus Iced Tea is a refreshing, caffeine-free summer drink bursting with fruity and floral flavors. Made with real strawberries and hibiscus tea, this vibrant red beverage is perfect for gatherings, picnics, or everyday sipping.
- Prep Time: 30min
- Cook Time: 2hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 14 servings
- Category: Beverages
- Method: Stovetop + Steeping
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
3 cups sliced strawberries
2 cups water (for strawberry syrup)
1 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
3 family-sized hibiscus tea bags (or ½ cup dried hibiscus flowers)
3 cups boiling water
8 cups cold water
Juice of 1 lemon
Ice cubes
Fresh strawberries and lemon slices (for garnish)
Instructions
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Prepare Strawberry Syrup:
In a saucepan, combine sliced strawberries, 2 cups water, and sugar. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes until the syrup thickens. Strain into a large pitcher, pressing to extract all juice. Discard solids. -
Hibiscus Tea:
Steep tea bags in 3 cups of boiling water for 5 minutes. Remove tea bags. Sweeten if desired. -
Combine and Chill:
Add hibiscus tea to the pitcher with strawberry syrup. Mix in 8 cups cold water and lemon juice. Stir well and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. -
Serve:
Pour over ice in glasses. Garnish with fresh strawberries and lemon slices.
Notes
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Minty Freshness: Add mint leaves during brewing for extra refreshment.
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Berry Variations: Try adding blueberries or raspberries for a fruity twist.
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Sparkling Swap: Use sparkling water in place of still for fizz
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Frozen Strawberries: Can be used, just thaw before making syrup.