Iced Karkade Tea Recipe

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When the weather heats up, I’m always on the lookout for a cool, refreshing drink that isn’t just water or the same old iced tea. That’s where Iced Karkade Tea comes in—it’s a vibrant, tart, and naturally sweet beverage made from dried hibiscus flowers.

A top view of a glass filled with ice cubes and a Karkade Tea. — Iced Karkade Tea Recipe. Photo credit: Tiny Batch Cooking.

I love this recipe because it’s not only refreshing, but it’s also incredibly easy to make in small batches. You can whip up just enough for one or two servings, so you’re not stuck with a huge pitcher of tea you’ll never finish.

I was surprised by how much I enjoyed its unique, tangy flavor the first time I made Iced Karkade Tea. It quickly became my go-to drink on hot days, especially because I can make just enough to enjoy without any waste.

This recipe of Egyptian herbal tea is all about making the perfect amount for one or two people, and this tea fits right in—no leftovers sitting in the fridge, just a refreshing glass ready when you need it.

Dried Hibiscus for Making a Refreshing Drink

Dried hibiscus flowers are the star of this recipe. They’re packed with a bright, tart flavor that makes Karkade Tea stand out from other iced teas. You can usually find dried hibiscus at specialty grocery stores, health food stores, or online. The best part is you only need a small amount to make a big impact, making it perfect for tiny batches.

A clear glass filled with iced red hibiscus tea, garnished with dried hibiscus flowers, is placed on a white surface with more dried flowers scattered around. — Iced red hibiscus tea.

The deep red color of the tea is as striking as its flavor, and like its taste, adds a splash of color to your day. On top of that, it has health benefits, it helps lower blood pressure because there is no sweetener or a cup of sugar added to it.

Can Karkade be Made Hot Hibiscus Tea

Absolutely. While Iced Karkade Tea is perfect for cooling down on a warm day, you can also enjoy it hot the same as this hot chocolate powdered mix. Simply follow the same steps but skip the ice. Serve it in your favorite mug for a cozy, warm drink that’s still full of that tangy hibiscus flavor. Regardless if you prefer it hot or cold, this tea is versatile enough to be enjoyed year-round.

Karkade – Hibiscus Iced Tea Best Time to Serve

Iced Karkade Tea is great any time you need a refreshing drink, but it truly shines during the summer months. It’s perfect for sipping on a hot afternoon, serving at a picnic, or enjoying with a light meal.

The tangy taste makes it an excellent palate cleanser, and it pairs well with a variety of dishes. This iced tea is the perfect companion when you’re lounging by the pool or having a simple lunch on the patio.

A glass filled with a dark red iced beverage and ice cubes. Dried hibiscus flowers are visible on the rim and scattered around the glass. — Glass with a Hibiscus iced Tea.

Easy Instructions for Creating Karkade Hibiscus Iced Tea Recipe

Making Hibiscus Tea Recipe is super simple, and it doesn’t require any fancy equipment. Here’s how you can make this delicious drink at home:

Must-Have Tools for Your Kitchen

Mason Jar: Perfect for steeping the hibiscus and storing your tea in the fridge.
Fine Mesh Strainer: Necessary for separating the hibiscus flowers from the liquid, leaving you with a smooth tea.

Key Ingredients:

Dry Hibiscus Flowers: The main ingredient that gives the tea its flavor and color.
Water: The base of your tea, is used to extract the flavor from the hibiscus flowers.
Ice Cubes: Essential for turning this tea into a cool, refreshing drink.

*Exact measurements are listed in the recipe card below.

Detailed Directions for Making Hibiscus Tea – Iced

One: Prepare Ingredients

Start by gathering your dry hibiscus flowers, water, and ice cubes. Make sure your mason jar and strainer are clean and ready to use.

Dry hibiscus flowers, a glass of ice cubes, and a jar on a white surface with text reading "Small Batch Cooking For Two-Small Portions-Single Servings ICED KARKADE TEA DRY HIBISCUS FLOWERS ICE CUBES WATER. — Ingredients for Iced Karkade Tea.

Two: Soak Dry Hibiscus Flowers

Pour water over the dried hibiscus flowers in the mason jar. Let it steep for about 10-15 minutes or best overnight, depending on how strong you like your tea. The longer it steeps, the more intense the flavor will be.

Three-step process of making a drink: 1. Hibiscus petals are placed in a jar. 2. Water is poured into the jar. 3. The jar is sealed. Loose petals are scattered around. — Making Hibiscus Iced tea.

Three: Strain Tea

Once the hibiscus has steeped to your liking, pour the tea into a clean container with the help of the strainer, removing the flowers. Add ice cubes to cool it down, or chill it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to enjoy.

Two-step process of making a red beverage: 1) Red liquid being poured through a strainer into a mason jar. 2) The strained liquid being poured into a glass with ice. — Pouring karkade tea.

Pro Tips for Best Results

Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter tea, feel free to add a little sugar or honey while the tea is still warm so it dissolves easily. Adjust to taste.
Experiment with Flavors: You can add a slice of lemon or a sprig of mint to your iced tea for an extra burst of flavor.
Chill Before Serving: For the best flavor, let the tea chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving. This gives the flavors time to blend together.

Common Questions Answered

What Are the Perfect Pairings for Iced Karkade Tea Recipe?

Iced Karkade Tea pairs wonderfully with light, summery dishes like salads, grilled vegetables, or fresh fruit. Its tangy flavor also makes it a great match for spicy foods, as it helps cool the palate between bites.

A glass of iced hibiscus tea with a clear straw, filled to the top with ice cubes, with scattered hibiscus petals and a green cloth in the background. — Iced hibiscus tea.

What Are the Proper Storage Tips for Iced Karkade Tea Recipe?

Once your Iced Karkade Tea is made, transfer it to an airtight container, like a mason jar with a secure lid. This helps prevent the tea from absorbing any odors from the fridge and keeps it tasting fresh.

It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days, but it’s best enjoyed within the first couple of days for the freshest taste. Give it a good stir before serving, as some parts may settle at the bottom.

How Do I Freeze Iced Karkade Tea Recipe

You can freeze Iced Karkade Tea if you want to keep it for longer. Pour the tea into ice cube trays and freeze. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just pop a few cubes into a glass and let them melt for a refreshing drink.

Additional Easy Small-Portion Recipes You’ll Love

From refreshing drinks to quick snacks and satisfying meals, there’s something for everyone who loves cooking in small portions. To pair with this refreshing drink check out our Vanilla Loaf Cake recipe.

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A glass of iced karkade tea with ice cubes and dried hibiscus flowers around, showcasing a small batch recipe for one or two people. Text overlay reads "Food for one or two: Iced Karkade Tea Recipe. — A glass of iced karkade tea.

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