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Chances are that you have seen two large glass drink jugs sitting on a counter in many Mexican moderately priced restaurants, “taquerias.” One container is full of a milky white rice drink called Horchata, and the other is jamaica, a delicious deep red drink called Jamaica (“Ha mai ca”). If you haven’t tried them, you are in for a treat.
How to make Jamaica ice tea
- Start with two cups of fresh hibiscus flowers, soft and pliable., but dried is usually found in markets.
- Add to 2 quarts of cold water.
- Boil and immediately reduce the heat to simmer for 10 minutes.
- Turn off the heat and let the mixture cool
- When flowers sink to the bottom of the pot, the Jamaica concentrate is ready.
- Strain the mixture. Pour into a glass container.
- Combine 1/2 of the concentrate with ½ to 1 cup of sugar and stir until the
- sugar is dissolved.
- Store your pitcher of Jamaica tea in a glass pitcher in the refrigerator.
- Serve cold or with ice. ENJOY!.
Jamaica comes from the hibiscus, a plant with its large, brightly colored red flowers. This wonderful drink is made from an infusion of the hibiscus flowers and has excellent health properties. It tastes a bit like cranberry juice, but it is sweeter when prepared with sugar or a little tart without sweetener. Jamaica is popular in many tropical countries and is commonly found in Mexico. The dried hibiscus can be bought in almost any Mexican Market and is easily prepared. A pitcher of Jamaica in the fridge is just the thing on a hot day, and it’s properties for your good health add to the benefits. It’s the perfect alternative to soda. Health benefits of this antioxidant-loaded drink are many. Antioxidant enzymes fight the free radicals, which damage body cells. Jamaica may help to reduce body fat levels and aids in weight loss. It contains compounds that are said to fight cancer and diabetes when used over time as a drink. { Note that it should not be taken with the blood pressure medication hydrochlorothiazide in order to prevent an interaction}. It’s good for cleansing the liver and fights bacteria. Jamaica has drug detoxifying propertiesSome studies indicate that Jamaica use also increases good cholesterol, HDL, and decreases the “bad” LDL and triglycerides.As they say, “Try it, you’ll like it.” Simple preparation and delicious.