Beverage
Sorrel Drink with Lime: A Refreshing Jamaican Hibiscus Beverage
Original name: Sorrel Drink with Lime
About this dish
Sorrel drink with lime is a Jamaican holiday staple, though you'll find it served chilled year-round. Dried hibiscus petals steep into a ruby-red infusion, brightened by fresh lime and a hint of ginger and spice.
Andre Sinclair says, 'The lime doesn't just cut the sweetness — it wakes the sorrel up, a reminder that rest and zest belong together.'
Ingredients
UK and US measurements are both included for every recipe.
dried sorrel petals
other2 cups (approx. 40 g)
Imperial measurement: 2 cups
fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
spice1 thumb-sized piece
Imperial measurement: 1 inch piece
whole cloves
spice4 whole
pimento berries (allspice)
spice6 berries
lime, juiced and zested
fruit2 limes
sugar (adjust to taste)
other1 cup (200 g)
Imperial measurement: 1 cup
water
liquid8 cups (2 L)
Imperial measurement: 8 cups
Method
Boil water
5 minutesIn a large pot, bring 8 cups of water to a rolling boil.
Add sorrel and spices
1 minuteAdd dried sorrel, ginger, cloves, and pimento berries to the boiling water. Stir once, then remove from heat and cover.
Steep
15-60 minutesLet the mixture steep for at least 15 minutes, or up to 1 hour for a stronger flavor. The longer it steeps, the deeper the ruby color and tang.
Strain and sweeten
5 minutesStrain the liquid into a large pitcher, discarding the solids. While still warm, stir in sugar until dissolved. Add lime juice and zest. Taste and adjust sweetness or tartness.
Chill and serve
2 hoursRefrigerate until cold, at least 2 hours. Serve over ice with lime slices.
Equipment
- large pot
- fine-mesh strainer
- pitcher
- wooden spoon
Nutrition facts
Tips
- Add the lime juice after straining and cooling slightly to preserve its fresh zing, boiling can make it taste dull.
- For a spiced version, add a cinnamon stick or a few strips of orange peel during steeping.
- If you prefer less sugar, start with half and adjust after chilling, as cold mutes sweetness.
- This drink keeps in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, stir before serving.
Serving suggestions
- Serve over crushed ice with a lime wheel and a sprig of fresh mint.
- Pair with Jamaican holiday favorites like fruit cake or spiced bun.
- Use as a mixer with rum or sparkling water for a festive cocktail.
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Recipe by
Andre Sinclair
Specialises in Jamaican cuisineAndre is a jerk pitmaster who doesn't believe in recipes. 'Feel the heat, man', he says.
Describe yourself in three words: Chill, philosophical, speaks in riddles.