Refreshing Sorrel Lemonade.
I’m not the biggest fan of lemonade, but toss is a Caribbean twist and BOOM.. one of the most refreshing summertime drinks you can serve/enjoy. Additionally, you can get your adult on and toss in some rum, vodka or tequila.. thank Uncle Chris later!
You’ll Need…
8 cups water (divided)
15 sorrel buds (dried)
1 slice ginger
1 clove
1 inch cinnamon
1 cup sugar
2 tablespoon mixed essence
2 tablespoon honey
6 lemons (juice)
1/2 teaspoon
Angostura Bitters
lemon slices for decorating
Bring 4 cups of water to a boil, then add the sorrel buds and simmer for 5 minutes.
Turn off the stove and add the ginger, clove and cinnamon to steep. We didn’t boil the sorrel with the clove, cinnamon nor ginger as we want a hint of those flavors and NOT a strong influence. It’s a great time to add the sugar while the liquid is warm. Stir to dissolve.
Juice the lemons in the meantime.
After the sorrel liquid is cooled (about 1 hour), strain into a large jug or bowl and add the remaining 4 cups of water, lemon juice, bitters, honey and mixed essence (you’ll find this at Caribbean shops).
Stir well and serve cold with a slice of lemon.
I’d recommend adjusting the sugar to your own liking and note that adding ice will dilute the drink a bit. The sorrel as we know it (in the Caribbean) is also known internationally as Hibiscus flowers or Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa)
This is delicious Chris I just posted it on my Instagram page so yummy. Thanks Chris
I am married to a Nigerian and we make this all the time. They call it Zobo. In Ghana they call it Sobolo. The big difference is …..they use Pinneapple instead of lemon. And they use it as a medicinal drink as well as a health beverage.
I use my electric pressure cooker, I use;
one bag of Grace Sorrel
One very large piece of ginger (size of my small hand)
2 cups chopped Pinneapple
1 tsp cloves
1/2 tsp allspice berries
3 litres of water ( or to fill line)
I pressure cook it for 50 minutes and then strain and squeeze out. Add either raspberry drink crystals, water enhancers, or just sugar to taste.
My hubby drank a small bottle of this everyday for the first 3 months of Covid 19.