Hibiscus and Rose Water Cooler with Basil Seeds
Deep red hibiscus makes a tart, colourful base for a chilled drink. A little rose water adds fragrance, while fully soaked basil seeds give a distinctive texture. Sweeten after brewing so you can balance the natural sharpness of your particular hibiscus.
- Prep
- 10 min
- Cook
- 10 min steeping
- Yield
- 4 glasses
- Note
- Plus chilling
In this recipe
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | From Moayeri |
|---|---|---|
| Dried hibiscus (roselle) | 10 g | Shop ingredient |
| Water | 800 ml | – |
| Basil seeds | 2 tsp | Shop ingredient |
| Honey | 2 tbsp, to taste | Shop ingredient |
| Rose water | ½–1 tsp | Shop ingredient |
| Lime juice; ice | 1 tbsp; to serve | – |
Shop ingredients
Products used in this recipe. Follow the quantities above; optional additions are not essential.
Rose Water
In stock
Method
Brew
Pour 800 ml freshly boiled water over hibiscus. Steep for 10 minutes, then strain into a heatproof jug. Stir in honey while the liquid is still warm.
Hydrate the seeds
In a separate bowl, stir basil seeds into 150 ml drinking water. Leave for at least 15 minutes, stirring once, until every seed has a swollen gel coating. Never add them dry to the finished drink.
Chill and balance
Cool the hibiscus infusion and refrigerate until cold. Add lime juice and start with ½ teaspoon rose water. Taste before adding more honey or rose water.
Assemble
Divide soaked seeds between four glasses. Add ice and pour in the hibiscus drink. Stir and serve with a spoon or wide straw, if desired.
Helpful tips
- The added soaking water slightly dilutes the drink; taste the finished glass before sweetening again.
- Keep rose water subtle so the hibiscus flavour remains clear.
Frequently asked questions
Are basil seeds the same as chia?
No. They are different seeds. This method and quantity are for basil seeds, fully hydrated before serving.
Can I prepare the infusion ahead?
Yes, refrigerate the strained drink in a covered jug and use the next day. Add ice and soaked seeds at serving time.