MSG Free Hibiscus Lemonade
That deep ruby color alone is enough to stop anyone in their tracks, and the flavor absolutely delivers on the promise. Dried hibiscus flowers steeped in hot water create a naturally tart, floral concentrate that pairs beautifully with fresh-squeezed lemon juice and a touch of honey for sweetness. Every single ingredient here is clean and whole — no flavor packets, no powdered drink mixes, no additives hiding in the background. For anyone navigating sensitivity to flavor enhancers, a homemade drink like this is a genuine breath of fresh air compared to bottled options. The honey dissolves right into the warm concentrate, so the sweetness is smooth and balanced rather than sharp or artificial-tasting. Served over ice with a sprig of mint and a lemon slice, it looks like something you'd pay too much for at a trendy café — except you made it yourself in about half an hour.
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Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
- ½ cup dried hibiscus flowers
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice (from about 4 lemons)
- 1 cup cold water
For the hibiscus concentrate
- 3 cups water
- 3 tbsp honey
For serving
- 2 cups ice cubes
- 4 lemon slices (optional)
- 4 fresh mint sprigs (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Combine the dried hibiscus flowers and 3 cups of water in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, until the liquid is a deep ruby red.
- 2
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the honey until fully dissolved. Let the concentrate steep and cool for 20 minutes.
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