ICED HIBISCUS AND HONEY ELIXIR
The iced hibiscus and honey elixir is a beautifully vibrant, tangy and subtly sweet beverage that offers a refreshing escape on warm days while providing a powerhouse of antioxidants. Made from hibiscus tea, known for its rich red hue and tart flavour, this drink is naturally high in vitamin C and flavonoids, supporting immunity and heart health. Freshly squeezed lemon juice enhances its bright, citrusy notes, while honey adds a gentle touch of natural sweetness, balancing the bold flavours. Served over ice, this elixir is both cooling and hydrating, making it a perfect non-alcoholic alternative to sugary beverages. Whether you’re looking for a rejuvenating afternoon pick-me-up, a refreshing detox drink, or an elegant, naturally caffeine-free herbal infusion, this iced hibiscus and honey elixir is a simple yet sophisticated way to enjoy the benefits of herbal tea in a chilled, flavourful form.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Drinks, Refreshments, Summer Beverages, Non-Alcoholic Drinks
SERVING SIZE
1 serving
CUISINE
Caribbean, African, Middle Eastern, Latin American
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
No-Cook, Quick & Easy, Infused Drinks
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Summer, Spring, Everyday Hydration, Detox Drink, Afternoon Refreshment, Wellness Beverage
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Alcohol-Free, Vegan, Vegetarian, Low Sugar, Quick & Easy, Hydrating, Immune-Boosting
DISH TYPE
Beverage, Iced Tea, Herbal Elixir
INGREDIENTS
The following are the ingredients we need to prepare this iced hibiscus and honey elixir.
- 150ml hibiscus tea, brewed and cooled
- 1 tsp honey
- ½ lemon, juiced
- Ice cubes
- Lemon slice or hibiscus petals (optional) for garnish
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 30 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fibre:5g
- Sugar: 6g
- Fat: 0g
- Sodium: 2mg
- Vitamin C: 35% DV
- Antioxidants: High
PREPARATION
- Brew The Hibiscus Tea: Steep dried hibiscus petals or a hibiscus tea bag in hot water for 5–7 minutes. Strain and let it cool completely.
- Juice The Lemon: Squeeze the juice from ½ a lemon and set aside.
- Sweeten The Drink: Stir in the honey while the tea is still slightly warm to help it dissolve fully.
- Prepare The Glass: Fill a serving glass with ice cubes for a chilled, refreshing experience.
- Assemble The Elixir: Pour the cooled hibiscus tea over the ice, followed by the lemon juice.
- Garnish And Serve: Add a lemon slice or hibiscus petals for an elegant touch and enjoy immediately.
PREP TIME
5 minutes (plus cooling time for tea)
COOKING TIME
None
TIPS
Here are some helpful tips for you when making this iced hibiscus and honey elixir.
- Use High-Quality Hibiscus: Organic dried hibiscus petals provide a richer colour and flavour compared to pre-packaged tea bags.
- Adjust Sweetness: Add more or less honey based on your preference, or substitute with agave syrup for a vegan alternative.
- For A Stronger Flavour: Let the hibiscus tea steep longer for a deeper, tangier taste.
- Keep It Extra Cold: Chill the hibiscus tea in the refrigerator before serving to reduce dilution from ice cubes.
- Enhance The Tartness: Add a splash of orange or grapefruit juice for an extra citrusy kick.
- Make It Fizzy: Swap regular water for sparkling water to create a hibiscus spritzer.
VARIATIONS
- Ginger Infusion: Add fresh ginger slices while brewing for a warming, digestion-boosting twist.
- Mint Cooler: Muddle fresh mint leaves in the glass for a cooling herbal contrast.
- Berry Boost: Mix in a handful of crushed raspberries or blueberries for extra antioxidants and flavour.
- Coconut Twist: Replace regular ice cubes with coconut water ice cubes for a tropical twist.
- Spicy Kick: Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper for a metabolism-boosting, invigorating variation.
- Frozen Delight: Blend the hibiscus tea with ice to create a slushy version perfect for hot days.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Refrigeration: Best consumed fresh but can be stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
- Freezing: Make hibiscus-lemon ice cubes by freezing tea and lemon juice for future use.
- Batch Preparation: Brew a large quantity of hibiscus tea and refrigerate it for quick assembly.
- On-The-Go: Store in a sealed bottle and shake before drinking to redistribute flavours.