Hibiscus Taco and Agua de Jamaica

This is another recipe inspired by our trip to Mexico. Although we didn’t have this during our trip, this recipe caught my attention when I was looking up some Mexican recipes.

I found these dried hibiscus flowers at a local supermarket.

To make these hibiscus tacos, you need to rinse hibiscus flowers to make sure it is clean, then boil the hibiscus flowers.

Add about 100 grams of hibiscus to 4 cups of water. Boil hibiscus in water for 3 min and then allow to cool. Drain and save the water for hibiscus tea (agua de Jamaica).

The hibiscus flowers are now ready for use.

Drain the hibiscus flowers and put in a sauce pan. To this add chopped tomatoes, and taco seasoning. If needed, add a little water.

Simmer until most of the liquid has evaporated and the hibiscus flowers are soft.

Taste to see if you need to add more seasoning or salt.

Serve this with soft corn tortillas. You can add other taco toppings such as cilantro, salsa, avocado or eat just as is.

These tacos are slightly tangy and very savory. They are a great alternative to meat tacos.

For the tea, chill the reserved hibiscus liquid. To prepare, sweeten with honey or sugar. If you find the tea too strong you can add more water for a lighter taste. Serve iced for a refreshing drink with your meal.

Hibiscus Tacos

100 grams of dried hibiscus flowers
4 cups of water
2 roma tomatoes, chopped
1 package of taco seasoning

Rinse the hibiscus flowers to remove any dirt and debris. In a pot add the hibiscus flowers and water. Boil for 3 minutes. Allow to cool. Drain and reserve the liquid. Chill until ready to use.

In a sauce pan, add the hibiscus flowers, tomatoes and some of the taco seasoning. Simmer with a little water until the hibiscus flowers are soft. Simmer until most of the liquid has evaporated. Taste and add more seasoning if needed. Serve with soft corn tortillas and add other toppings or eat on its own.

Hibiscus tea (Agua de Jamaica)