Hibiscus, Laurel (Bay Leaf), and Cinnamon Tea

Equipment

• Medium saucepan or kettle
• Fine mesh strainer
• Large glass pitcher or teapot
• Measuring spoons
• Serving cups or glasses

Ingredients

• 4 cups water
• 3 tablespoons dried hibiscus flowers
• 2 medium dried laurel (bay) leaves
• 1 cinnamon stick (about 3 inches long)
• 1–2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional)
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional)
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
• Lemon slices for serving (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Water and Spices

1. Pour 4 cups of water into a medium saucepan and place it over medium-high heat. Add the cinnamon stick and bay leaves. Bring the water to a gentle boil.
2. Allowing the spices to heat slowly helps release their natural oils, creating a deeper and more balanced flavor.

Step 2: Add the Hibiscus Flowers

1. Once the water begins boiling, remove the saucepan from the heat. Add the dried hibiscus flowers and stir gently.
2. Cover the saucepan with a lid and allow the tea to steep for 10–15 minutes. The longer it steeps, the stronger and more intense the color and flavor will become.

Step 3: Strain the Tea

1. Place a fine mesh strainer over a pitcher or large bowl. Slowly pour the tea through the strainer to remove the hibiscus flowers, bay leaves, and cinnamon stick.
2. Press gently on the hibiscus flowers with a spoon to release any remaining liquid and flavor.

Step 4: Sweeten and Adjust Flavor

1. While the tea is still warm, add honey or maple syrup if desired. Stir until completely dissolved.
2. For a brighter flavor, add fresh lemon juice. The lemon will enhance the hibiscus flavor and create an even more refreshing taste.

Step 5: Serve Hot or Cold

1. For hot tea, pour immediately into cups and enjoy.
2. For iced tea, allow the tea to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Serve over ice with lemon slices or fresh mint.

Nutrition

Calories: 18 · Protein: 0g · Fat: 0g · Carbohydrates: 5g Dietary · Saturated Fat: 0g · Fiber: 1g · Sugar: 2g (varies depending on sweetener used) Added · Sodium: 3mg