Cooking with hibiscus: 5 must-try recipes
What's the story
Hibiscus is a powerhouse of color and flavor, making it an ideal ingredient to use in a variety of meals. Not just a pretty flower, hibiscus is a nutrient powerhouse. From salads to desserts, hibiscus can give a unique twist to your meals. Here are five modern ways to incorporate hibiscus in your meals, each one offering a unique taste and experience.
Fresh twist
Hibiscus-infused salads
Adding hibiscus to salads provides a refreshing, tangy taste that goes well with fresh greens and vegetables. All you need to do is steep dried hibiscus flowers in hot water, allow them to cool, and toss them in with your favorite salad ingredients. The infusion adds a hint of tartness that elevates the taste of the salad without overpowering it.
Sweet addition
Hibiscus syrup for desserts
Hibiscus syrup can be an excellent addition to desserts like cakes or pancakes. To make the syrup, simmer dried hibiscus flowers with sugar and water till it thickens. Drizzle this vibrant syrup over desserts for an added layer of flavor and color. It pairs well with vanilla or citrus-based sweets.
Flavor boost
Hibiscus rice dishes
Adding hibiscus into rice dishes not only makes them more delicious but also gives them a beautiful color. Start by cooking rice the regular way and then add some dried hibiscus flowers while boiling. This gives the rice a hint of tanginess and a beautiful pink color, making any meal a visually beautiful one.
Refreshing blend
Hibiscus smoothies
For smoothie lovers, hibiscus can be an amazing addition to your drink, along with its unique flavor. Just blend steeped hibiscus tea with fruits like berries or bananas for a refreshing drink. This combination not only brings health benefits but also adds a unique flavor that's healthy and delicious. It's an effortless way to add the goodness of hibiscus into your diet with a tasty, revitalizing drink.
Tangy spread
Hibiscus jams and spreads
Creating jams or spreads using hibiscus is another way to creatively incorporate this flower into your meals. Combine dried hibiscuses with sugar, lemon juice, and pectin. Cook until it reaches the desired consistency before storing in jars as jam or spreadable topping. It's perfect on toast or crackers.