Jamaican Sorrel
This traditional Jamaican holiday beverage is made by steeping dried hibiscus flowers with warm spices overnight to create a deep crimson, tart-sweet drink. The long steeping time develops complex flavors that improve over several days in the refrigerator. Perfect for serving at gatherings or enjoying throughout the week as a festive non-alcoholic refreshment or spiked cocktail.
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Fine Mesh Sieve
- Cheesecloth
- Pitcher
- Glasses
Ingredients
Sorrel Drink
- 2 cups Dried Sorrel hibiscus flowers
- 8 cups Water
- 1-2 inches Ginger fresh, grated or sliced
- 4-5 whole Cloves
- 1 stick Cinnamon
- 2-3 cups Sugar adjust to taste
Optional
- 1-2 cups White Rum adjust to taste
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
Serving
- Ice Cubes
- Cinnamon Sticks for garnish
- Lime wedges, for garnish
Instructions
Prep
- Bring the water to a boil in a large pot.
- Add the dried sorrel, ginger, cloves, and cinnamon stick to the boiling water.
- Turn off the heat and stir.
- Cover the pot and let the mixture steep overnight for maximum flavor.
Strain and Sweeten
- Strain the sorrel mixture through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean pitcher.
- Discard the solids.
- Add sugar to the strained liquid and stir until completely dissolved.
- If using, stir in the rum and vanilla extract.
- Taste and adjust sweetness or alcohol content as desired.
- Refrigerate until cold, at least 2-3 hours.
Serve
- Serve over ice, garnished with a cinnamon stick or lime wedge.
Notes
Sorrel concentrate actually improves with time—the flavors meld and deepen after 2-3 days in the fridge, so make it ahead. The overnight steep is non-negotiable; rushing this step results in a thin, one-dimensional drink. You can adjust the sugar level after steeping since everyone's sweetness preference varies widely. Store in glass containers or pitchers for up to two weeks refrigerated. The rum is traditional for adults but completely optional—this works beautifully as a family-friendly beverage. For a less sweet version, start with 1.5 cups sugar and add more to taste.
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