Recipe 1: Traditional Senegalese Bissap
Bissap is a drink made from dried hibiscus flowers, emblematic of West Africa, particularly in Senegal, where it is served at parties and social gatherings. This ruby-red infusion, slightly tangy and sweet, is both refreshing and rich in antioxidants. Easy to prepare, it will quickly become a summer staple!
Ingredients (for 1 liter of bissap)
- 50g dried organic hibiscus leaves (about 2 handfuls)
- 1 liter of water
- 50-80g organic cane sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional, for a touch of acidity)
- A few fresh mint leaves (optional, for freshness)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or a vanilla bean (optional, for a sweet note)
Instructions
- Infusion: Bring water to a boil in a saucepan. Remove from heat, add the dried hibiscus leaves, and let steep for 15-20 minutes, until the water turns a deep red.
- Straining: Strain the infusion through a fine-mesh strainer to remove the leaves. Gently press the leaves to extract all the juice.
- Sweetening: Add the cane sugar while the infusion is still hot, stirring until completely dissolved. Let cool to room temperature.
- Finishing: Stir in the lemon juice and vanilla extract (if using). Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to serve chilled.
- Serving: Serve in glasses with ice and a few mint leaves for a decorative touch.
Preparation time
25 minutes (plus 2 hours of refrigeration)
Tip
For a less sweet version, replace the sugar with organic honey or a natural sweetener like agave syrup. You can also make a large batch and store it in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
Recipe 2: Classic Egyptian Carcadé
Carcadé (or karkadé) is a traditional Egyptian drink, often enjoyed hot or cold, known for its refreshing properties and tangy taste. This simple recipe highlights the purity of hibiscus leaves and their richness in antioxidants, perfect for a wellness break.
Ingredients (for 1 liter of carcade)
- 40g dried organic hibiscus leaves (about 1.5 handfuls)
- 1 liter of water
- 40-60g organic cane sugar (or according to your preference)
- 1 cinnamon stick (optional, for a spicy note)
- 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice (optional, for a fruity sweetness)
Instructions
- Infusion: In a saucepan, bring water to a boil. Add the hibiscus leaves and cinnamon stick (if using), then let it steep over low heat for 10-15 minutes.
- Straining: Remove from heat and strain the infusion through a fine-mesh strainer. Discard the leaves (or compost them!).
- Sweetening: Stir in the cane sugar while the infusion is still hot. Let it cool slightly.
- Finishing: Add orange juice (if using) for a hint of citrus. Serve hot as an herbal tea, or let it cool and refrigerate for a cold drink.
- Serving: Serve with ice for the cold version or in a mug for the hot version, garnished with an orange slice for an elegant presentation.
Preparation time
20 minutes (plus cooling time if served cold)
Tip
For a more comforting hot version, add a pinch of freshly grated ginger while steeping. Carcadé also pairs perfectly with red fruit desserts.
Recipe 3: Fruity Infusion of Hibiscus and Red Berries
For a modern twist, this fruity hibiscus and red berry infusion revisits classic flavors with a burst of fruit. Perfect for picnics or summer evenings, this colorful drink is as beautiful as it is delicious, and it’s sure to please all ages.
Ingredients (for 1 liter of infusion)
- 30g dried organic hibiscus leaves (about 1 handful)
- 1 liter of water
- 50g organic cane sugar (or honey, according to your taste)
- 100g fresh or frozen berries (raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- A few lime slices or berries for garnish
Instructions
- Infusion: Bring the water to a boil, remove from heat, and add the hibiscus leaves. Let it steep for 10-15 minutes until it turns a vibrant red.
- Straining: Strain the infusion through a fine-mesh strainer, pressing the leaves to extract all the liquid.
- Sweetening: Add the cane sugar or honey while the infusion is still hot, stirring until dissolved. Let it cool slightly.
- Adding the Fruit: Stir in the berries and lime juice. Let it sit in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to blend.
- Serving: Serve chilled over ice, garnished with lime slices or a few berries for a festive touch.
Preparation time
20 minutes (plus 1-2 hours of refrigeration)
Tip
For a sparkling version, replace half of the water with sparkling water just before serving. This drink can also be transformed into a mocktail by adding a dash of grenadine syrup.
Why choose organic dried hibiscus leaves?
Organic dried hibiscus leaves are much more than a beverage ingredient: they are a natural source of antioxidants (anthocyanins), vitamin C, and minerals, which support the immune system, promote glowing skin, and help regulate blood pressure. Their tangy taste and vibrant color make them a perfect choice for healthy and aesthetically pleasing drinks, ideal for any occasion.
Our organic hibiscus leaves are grown without pesticides, respecting the environment and farming communities. In 100g bags, they are convenient to use and ideal for exploring culinary traditions such as bissap or carcadé, while innovating with modern recipes.
Conclusion: Let yourself be seduced by organic hibiscus drinks!
From vibrant Senegalese bissap to comforting Egyptian carcadé, to a contemporary fruity infusion, these three recipes showcase the versatility and richness of organic dried hibiscus leaves. Easy to prepare, they bring a touch of exoticism and well-being to your daily life. Whether you’re a fan of African traditions, curious about Egyptian flavors, or looking for a modern drink, hibiscus will win you over.
Want to experience a flavorful journey? Order our organic dried hibiscus leaves in 100g sachets and start creating your own drinks today. Discover them on Neerwaya.fr and share your recipes with us!
