Iced Hibiscus Coconut Latte
Every time I travel to anywhere in Mexico or Central America I am reminded of just how much I LOVE Jamaica (pronounced hah-MY-kah) AKA Hibiscus Tea or Jamaican Sorrel! Hibiscus tea is an excellent source of antioxidants and is incredibly high in vitamin C. It is also completely caffeine free unlike regular tea or coffee, which makes it the perfect afternoon pick me up or treat without disturbing your sleep!
Jamaica is traditionally prepared by boiling dried hibiscus flowers and is usually topped of with a bit (or a lot) of sugar. In this recipe is am using the same hibiscus flowers but adding a few spices and just a small amount or real maple syrup! The end results is a caffeine free afternoon pick me up that is refined sugar free, low in carbohydrates and filled with a tart and delicious flavor! This recipe can be enjoyed hot or over ice as shown above!
GATHER
1/2 cup dried hibiscus leaves ( I purchased mine from Central Market but you can also purchase from amazon)
2 cups of water
1 tsp maple syrup
1 tsp cinnamon
2 tsp fresh lime juice
1/4 full fat canned coconut milk, frothed
MAKE
I like to do a simple overnight infusion by leaving my hibiscus leaves overnight in the water as I find it to be less work. You may also bring your two cups of water, with the hibiscus leaves, to boil. Once boiling; allow to simmer for 10 minutes before allowing to cool and straining off the hibiscus leaves. If steeping overnight simply place your 1/2 cup of dried hibiscus leaves into a jar or glass with your two cups of water. Place the glass on your counter top or refrigerator and allow to infuse overnight. Once infused or steeped, strain off the hibiscus leaves.
Once you have your plain hibiscus tea; add in the lime juice, cinnamon and maple to taste and ensure everything is mixed well. Pour about a cup of the hibiscus mixture (or more) into a mug or glass over ice and save the remaining hibiscus mixture for a latte or use to make a latte for a friend. In a separate dish or small glass; whisk your 1/4 cup coconut milk until nice and frothy. Pour your frothed coconut milk on top of your hibiscus tea mixture and enjoy!