Hello everyone! Roselle is a herb with many benefits when used correctly. Its amazing properties include lowering cholesterol, reducing high blood pressure, and decreasing blood viscosity. It also improves blood circulation throughout the body and can even help alleviate varicose veins. Wow, it has so many benefits! On days with fluctuating weather, sometimes we crave something other than soft drinks, and herbal tea is a great option. Today, I've chosen to brew some roselle tea for my family.
Today, I chose to make hibiscus tea with pandan leaves and Chinese dates. I looked up recipes on YouTube, and while it's not actually that complicated, I wanted to do some research to be sure. Pandan leaves and Chinese dates are both beneficial, but you have to use them correctly—too much isn't good, too little isn't good either. So, once I was confident, I got started. First, I took a handful of dried hibiscus flowers and washed them to remove any dirt or dust. After that, I washed the dried Chinese dates, soaked them in water for a while to soften them, and then cut them in half. You don't need to remove the pits. And finally, I added 3-4 pandan leaves—the older ones—washed them thoroughly, either chopped or tied into a bundle. Before adding all of these, I heated about 2 liters of water, allowing extra water for when it boils, as the water will reduce considerably.
Once the water is boiling, add the dried hibiscus, pandan leaves, and Chinese dates and simmer for about 15 to 20 minutes over medium heat.
After boiling for the specified time, strain out the dried hibiscus, Chinese dates, and pandan leaves. Then, heat it again over low heat and add a pinch of salt and sugar, tasting and adjusting to your liking. Some people may not like the overly sour and astringent taste; adding sugar and salt will create a more balanced flavor.
And just like that, we have a delicious and refreshing hibiscus drink! You can also add ice for a chilled hibiscus tea, perfect for a hot day like this. But if it's cold, drinking it warm, not too hot, is also nice. So, friends, would you like to try making hibiscus tea at home? Thank you for reading my article, and see you again in the next one!