Xanthan Gum Free Turmeric-Cinnamon Strawberry Hibiscus Cooler
This vibrant, jewel-toned drink is the kind of thing that stops people mid-sip and makes them ask what's in it. Dried hibiscus flowers steep with turmeric, cinnamon, and ginger to build a deep ruby base that's floral, warming, and just a little exotic — then fresh strawberries and bright lemon juice get blended right in for a fruity finish that feels genuinely refreshing. The whole thing comes together with nothing but whole spices, real fruit, and a touch of honey, so there's no need to scan labels for hidden thickeners or additives. Xanthan gum shows up in a surprising number of packaged drinks and flavored syrups as a texture agent, but this cooler gets its gorgeous body entirely from blended strawberries and the natural richness of the hibiscus brew. It's a completely clean pour from start to glass. Serve it over ice with a sprig of mint and a lemon slice for a presentation that looks far more effortful than it actually is — perfect for a summer afternoon or whenever you want something that feels a little special without any fuss.
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Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
For the hibiscus base
- 3 cups water
- ½ cup dried hibiscus flowers
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground ginger
- 2 tbsp honey
For the cooler
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 cup ice cubes
For serving
- fresh mint sprigs (optional)
- lemon slices (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Combine the water, dried hibiscus flowers, ground turmeric, ground cinnamon, and ground ginger in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, until the liquid is deep ruby-red and fragrant.
- 2
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the honey until fully dissolved. Let the mixture steep for 10 minutes, then strain through a fine-mesh strainer into a pitcher, pressing the hibiscus flowers to extract all the liquid. Discard the solids.
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