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Long before the pandemic, I planned to make elderberry syrup. Elderberries are a delicious, natural immune-supporting ingredient that can be used safely for children. I bought a bag of dried elderberries at my local co-op, but like many DIY projects, it sat on the shelf for months. When spring arrived in the time of Covid, I finally turned those berries into something wonderful: hibiscus elderberry ginger tea.
I grew up drinking iced Red Zinger tea with my dad—he’d make a pitcher every few days during hot Atlanta summers. That made hibiscus teas especially meaningful to me. There’s nothing better than a tall, cold glass of sweet hibiscus on a humid afternoon. Over the years I kept the tradition alive, even while living away from family, and I now enjoy experimenting with blends.
My favorite version combines dried hibiscus flowers, elderberries, fresh ginger, and orange peel. Hibiscus and elderberry are both high in antioxidants and vitamin C, while ginger and orange add brightness and warmth. I usually brew a large, unsweetened pitcher and sweeten individual glasses with agave or another sweetener, since not everyone prefers sweet tea. Another approach is to first make a concentrated elderberry syrup (often made with honey, though agave works too), then add it to the hibiscus concentrate before diluting. If you can’t find dried elderberries, elderberry liquid concentrate can be used—adjust to taste.
It’s iced tea season, and I love trying different combinations—hibiscus with peppermint and orange is another great option—but this hibiscus elderberry ginger blend remains my top pick.
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Hibiscus Elderberry Ginger Tea
Ingredients
- 8 cups water
- 1/4 cup dried hibiscus flowers
- 1/4 cup dried elderberries
- 2 tbsp fresh ginger, minced or grated
- 2 cinnamon sticks optional
- 1/4 cup fresh orange peels, about 1/2 orange or 1 tbsp dried orange peel
- Agave or other sweetener, to taste
Instructions
- Bring the water to a boil.
- Remove from heat and add the hibiscus flowers, elderberries, ginger, orange peel, and cinnamon sticks.
- Stir well, then cover with a lid.
- Let the mixture steep for about 30 minutes.
- Sweeten to taste and dilute with cold water if the concentrate is too strong.
- Strain into a large pitcher and chill before serving.
Notes
Storage Directions
Store the tea in a covered jar or pitcher in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Recipe Pro-Tips
- Use a mesh strainer or cheesecloth. Strain the tea before serving to remove hibiscus bits and ginger. For a smoother tea, pour through cheesecloth after using a large strainer.
- Simmer in a clear pot. A clear glass pot will showcase the vibrant color if you have one.
- Compost the scraps. After straining, compost the orange peels and other solids.
- Store covered. Keep the tea in a sealed container so it doesn’t absorb other fridge flavors.
Stir before serving. Ingredients can settle as the tea sits, so give it a stir before serving for the best flavor.
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 2 g |
Protein: 0.1 g |
Fat: 0.03 g |
Sugar: 0.03 g