Hibiscus Simple Syrup
Hisbiscus simple syrup, this ruby-hued elixir, born from those sun-drenched blossoms, isn't just a visually stunning concoction. It's a flavorful creation carrying with it the echoes of that Mediterranean summer, a testament to the transformative power of a vibrant flower and a little bit of sugar.
Six years ago, I left DC and I found myself in a vibrant Mediterranean garden in Tunisia. It was a sanctuary filled with the heady perfume of roses, the cascading fuchsia of bougainvillea, the sunshine-kissed glow of lemons, and the intoxicating sweetness of honeysuckle.
But among these treasures, it was the hibiscus that held a special magic. Harvesting those hibiscus blooms, their ruby hearts cradled in velvety leaves, became a ritual, a moment of shared peace amidst the world's anxieties. Transforming them into fragrant tea, the vibrant color bleeding into the water, was a reminder that even in the darkest times, beauty and solace can be found in the simplest things. It was a lesson that transcended the garden, whispering that our everyday meals and drinks can be more than mere sustenance; they can be works of art, imbued with memories and meaning.
In fact, it was this special time in life that inspired frolic and fare.
A journey through tistory:
The hibiscus flower, with its large, showy blooms, has captivated cultures for centuries. In ancient Egypt, it was revered for its medicinal properties and used in religious ceremonies. The Aztecs brewed a refreshing beverage from hibiscus flowers, while in India, it became a popular ingredient in Ayurvedic medicine. Today, hibiscus syrup continues its global journey, adding its unique flavor profile to cuisines and cultures worldwide.
How does hibiscus taste?
Hibiscus syrup isn't just sweet; it's a complex dance of tartness, floral notes, and subtle hints of berry. This unique flavor profile makes it incredibly versatile, offering endless possibilities for culinary exploration.
Crafting Your Own Magic:
Making your own hibiscus syrup is surprisingly easy and incredibly rewarding. All you need are dried hibiscus flowers, sugar, water, and a little simmering time. Get creative and add spices like ginger or cinnamon for a twist, or infuse it with other fruits for a truly unique flavor. It's a fun and delicious way to personalize this versatile ingredient.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons dried hibiscus flowers
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- In a small saucepan over low heat - heat the water, hibiscus and sugar it comes to a simmer.
Stir while syrup gently simmers gently for 10 minutes.
Remove from heat and let the liquid thicken and cool.
Pour into jar with an airtight lid. Strain if you used flowers for natural coloring.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How long will this syrup last for?
Sugar is used in cooking as a preservative— think jams and jellies, which are also called preserves. So simple syrups have a decent shelf life, when prepared and stored properly: made with very hot water and stored in a sterile container in the refrigerator. A 1:1 simple syrup like this one lasts only one month when refrigerated.
How should I store the syrup?
The recommended way to store simple syrup is to use an airtight container that's been sterilized.
Hibiscus Syrup
Ingredients
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons dried hibiscus flowers
Instructions
- In a small saucepan over low heat - heat the water, hibiscus and sugar it comes to a simmer.
- Stir while syrup gently simmers gently for 10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let the liquid thicken and cool.
- Pour into jar with an airtight lid. Strain if you used flowers for natural coloring.
Notes
Nutrition
Enjoy this hibiscus syrup on our Italian Hibiscus Soda!
