Hibiscus, Strawberry, and Basil Mocktail
This delightful hibiscus, strawberry, and basil mocktail is the perfect drink to impress your guests at summer gatherings or to enjoy on a sunny afternoon!
Recipe Information
- Servings: About 1.2 liters
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Infusion Time: 10 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
- Strawberry Mocktail Base:
- 200 g strawberries
- Ice cubes
- 100 ml sparkling water
- Hibiscus Infusion:
- 4 teaspoons dried hibiscus flowers
- 750 ml still water
- Basil Syrup:
- 1 bunch of basil
- 180 g sugar
- 250 ml still water
Instructions
- Prepare the Hibiscus Infusion:
- Boil the still water and steep the dried hibiscus flowers for 10 minutes.
- Strain the mixture and let it cool before refrigerating.
- Create the Basil Syrup:
- In a saucepan, bring the water and sugar to a boil.
- Coarsely chop the basil bunch, keeping the stems.
- Once the mix is boiling, turn off the heat, add the chopped basil, cover the pan, and let steep for one hour.
- Strain the syrup.
- Blend the Mocktail:
- In a blender, combine the hibiscus infusion, strawberries, 250 ml of basil syrup, and a handful of ice cubes.
- Blend until smooth.
- Pour in the sparkling water right before serving.
- Garnish with a few strawberries and basil leaves.
Notes
This mocktail can be made in advance. Simply blend and refrigerate the base until it’s time to serve, then add the sparkling water for a refreshing fizz!
Recipe Tips
- For a sweeter drink, adjust the sugar in the basil syrup according to your taste.
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor.
- Experiment by adding other fruits like mango or watermelon to give a tropical twist!
Nutritional Information
This drink is a delightful way to hydrate, providing essential vitamins from the strawberries and antioxidants from the hibiscus.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this mocktail in bulk?
Yes, this recipe is perfect for making in larger quantities. Just scale up the ingredients accordingly.
2. What can I use instead of basil?
You can try mint or even rosemary for a different flavor profile!
3. Is hibiscus safe to drink?
Yes, hibiscus tea is safe for most people and can be enjoyed hot or cold.
4. How long can I store the basil syrup?
The basil syrup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Make sure it’s kept in an airtight container.
5. Can I add alcohol to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can add a splash of rum or vodka to create a spirited version of this mocktail.