How to use hibiscus petals: 6 easy ways

Dried hibiscus petals are the deep red flowers of the hibiscus plant. They make a ruby red drink that tastes tart and fruity, a little like cranberry. The drink is sour on its own, which is why most people sweeten it and add ginger, mint or orange.

How much to use

Use 1 tablespoon of petals for a cup of hot water, or 3 to 4 tablespoons for a litre. Steep for 10 minutes, strain, and sweeten to taste. Do not steep for hours, or it becomes very sour. The petals stain, so use a stainless or glass pot.

Ways to use it

1. Hot hibiscus tea. Pour boiling water over a tablespoon of petals, cover, wait 10 minutes, strain, and add honey.
2. A jug of cold drink. Steep in hot water, cool, add sugar and plenty of ice. A good party drink.
3. With ginger and mint. Add a few slices of ginger or a handful of mint to the pot while it steeps.
4. With orange or pineapple. Mix the cooled tea with fresh orange or pineapple juice for a sweeter drink.
5. Ice lollies. Freeze the sweetened tea in moulds or small cups for the children.
6. Cooked petals. After steeping, chop the soft petals and fold them into salads or stir-fries. They taste tart, like a sour leaf.

Keeping it fresh

Keep the petals in a tightly closed container in a cool, dry cupboard, away from sunlight and damp. They absorb moisture easily. Stored well, they keep their colour for about a year.

Which pack to choose

It comes in a single 150g pack. That makes many jugs, since a few tablespoons go a long way. If you serve it at events, you may want more than one pack, so ask us.

Next step: Add it to your order in the shop, or ask Glow on WhatsApp which pack suits you.