Hibiscus ginger tea is a vibrant ruby red herbal drink with a naturally tart, fruity flavor and a warm kick from fresh ginger. It is made with dried hibiscus flowers, ginger, lemon and a touch of honey, and it is ready in about ten minutes.
Enjoy it steaming hot on a cool evening or pour it over ice for a stunning summer drink. Hibiscus tea, known as karkade or bissap, is loved across North and West Africa.
Why you'll love this Hibiscus Ginger Tea
Gorgeous deep red color
Tart, fruity and refreshing
Naturally caffeine free
Delicious hot or iced
What does hibiscus ginger tea taste like?
Think cranberry meets pomegranate, with a lively ginger warmth underneath. A squeeze of lemon makes it even brighter and a little honey rounds off the tartness.
Hibiscus gets stronger the longer it steeps, so keep an eye on the timer for a balanced cup.
Ingredients for Hibiscus Ginger Tea
- 2 cups water
- 2 tablespoons dried hibiscus flowers
- 1 inch piece fresh ginger, thinly sliced
- ½ lemon, juiced
- 1 to 2 teaspoons honey, optional
- Ice, lemon wheels and mint, for serving
Full steps are in the recipe card below.
How to make Hibiscus Ginger Tea
- 1
Slice the ginger
Wash the ginger and slice it thinly.
- 2
Simmer
Bring the water to a gentle boil, add the ginger, lower the heat slightly and simmer for 3 minutes.
- 3
Steep
Remove from the heat, add the hibiscus, cover and steep for about 5 minutes.
- 4
Strain
Strain into a jug or cups, removing all flowers and ginger.
- 5
Finish
Stir in the lemon juice and honey to taste while the tea is warm.
- 6
Serve
Serve hot, or let it cool and pour over ice with a lemon wheel.
Tips for the best Hibiscus Ginger Tea
- Taste before adding honey.
- Cool completely before pouring over ice.
- Garnish with mint for a fresh finish.
Easy variations
Citrus
Use orange juice instead of lemon.
Spiced
Add a cinnamon stick while simmering.
Berry
Crush a few berries into each glass.
Sparkling
Top iced tea with sparkling water.
How to store Hibiscus Ginger Tea
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for 2 to 3 days.
- Remove the hibiscus and ginger before storing.
A quick health note: Hibiscus may affect blood pressure and interact with some medications. If you are pregnant, take medication or have a health condition, talk to your healthcare provider before drinking it regularly.
Hibiscus Ginger Tea
Make hibiscus ginger tea in 10 minutes with dried hibiscus, fresh ginger, lemon and honey. A ruby red, caffeine free tea served hot or iced.
Ingredients
Equipment: Small saucepan with lid, fine mesh strainer, mugs or tall glasses
Instructions
- Slice the gingerWash the ginger and slice it thinly.
- SimmerBring the water to a gentle boil, add the ginger, lower the heat slightly and simmer for 3 minutes.
- SteepRemove from the heat, add the hibiscus, cover and steep for about 5 minutes.
- StrainStrain into a jug or cups, removing all flowers and ginger.
- FinishStir in the lemon juice and honey to taste while the tea is warm.
- ServeServe hot, or let it cool and pour over ice with a lemon wheel.
Notes
- Over steeping makes the tea very sour.
- For iced tea, use a little less water so the ice does not dilute it too much.
Yield: 2 servings. Nutrition is an estimate of about 15 calories per serving and will vary with your ingredients.
Frequently asked questions
Is hibiscus ginger tea caffeine free?
Yes, when made only with these ingredients.
Why is my tea too sour?
Too much hibiscus or a long steep. Dilute with water or add honey.
Can I drink it daily?
Many people do, but check with your doctor if you take blood pressure medication.
Explore more in Metabolism Boosters or browse African Inspired drinks.
