Have you been thinking about cutting down on alcohol, but still want to have a delicious and festive drink?  I've got just the thing for you!

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Everyday more people are embracing guilt-free drinking by choosing beverages without alcohol.  However, when you skip the booze, you still want something festive and fun!   If you're craving more than just sparkling water, hibiscus is worth a try.

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Why Hibiscus Makes the Perfect Non-Alc Drink

Not only is hibiscus stunning in color, it's also remarkably functional.  Its bold, tangy cranberry-like taste, brightened by floral notes, makes it a great choice for pairing with other mixers or standing out on its own.

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Supports cardiovascular health:  Studies suggest hibiscus may help maintain healthy blood pressure and promote overall heart wellness.

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Antioxidants:  Hibiscus is packed with anthocyanins and vitamin C, which help defend against oxidative stress and support cellular health.

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Naturally caffeine-free and calming:  Hibiscus can be enjoyed day or night without impacting sleep.

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A SIMPLE HIBISCUS HOLIDAY DRINK

This recipe can be made anytime, but is extra special during the winter holiday season.  It can be made to suit your taste, so play around and have fun with it.

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Enjoy!

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Ingredients:

• 1/4 - 1/2 cups dried hibiscus flowers (you can also use 4 - 8 hibiscus tea bags)

• 4 cups water

• 2 - 3 cinnamon sticks

• 2 - 5 whole cloves

• 1 inch piece fresh ginger, crushed

• 3 - 5 inches orange peel (remove the pith) 

• 3 inches lemon peel (remove the pith)

• 1 1/2 cup of sugar (or to taste)

• Sparkling water (club soda or seltzer)

• Optional: ginger ale, ginger beer

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Options and Substitutes 

• This blend can be made without the cinnamon, cloves, and ginger.  You can also add more ginger for a spicier brew

• The orange and lemon peel can be substituted with 4 tablespoons of lemon juice

• Sugar can be substituted with honey, agave, or maple syrup

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Instructions:

1. In a large saucepan add hibiscus, cinnamon, cloves, ginger, orange and lemon peel, sugar and water.  Bring to a boil while stirring until sugar is completely dissolved

2. Let boil for about 2 minutes, reduce heat and let simmer for 5 minutes

3. Remove from heat and let steep for 10 minutes (or up to an hour for stronger flavor)

4. Strain the concentrated brew into an air tight container.  Can be refrigerated up to a month.

 

Assembly:​

• Add hibiscus concentrate and sparkling water to a glass.  Mix to taste.  Add ice if desired.  Ginger ale or ginger beer can also be added

• Garnish with thin slices of ginger, orange, lemon, or a sprig of rosemary or mint 

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