Hibiscus is used throughout the Middle East and Latin America to make a ruby-red herbal tea. You can find the flowers at a tea or herb retailer. This hibiscus cordial is the brainchild of our bar manager and long-time friend Robert Krueger. This cleverly designed cordial brings out a rich color, beautiful floral notes, and a nice citrus flavor from the dried hibiscus flowers. It’s the main ingredient in Rob’s Roselle cocktail (page 71). Vodka and brandy serve to fortify the cordial for longer use.
Recipe information
Yield
makes about 1 quart
Ingredients
Preparation
Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan over high heat. Decrease the heat and add the hibiscus flowers and sugar; stir until the sugar is entirely dissolved. Remove from the heat and allow to cool. Add the vodka and cognac, then strain and bottle immediately.
