Make Ahead

Sorrel Spritz

January  9, 2022
5
1 Ratings
Photo by Kelli_Epicurie
  • Prep time 4 hours
  • Cook time 15 minutes
  • Serves 16
Author Notes

Holiday celebrations in the Caribbean always start with sorrel, a drink made from boiled hibiscus flowers and spices. It's like mulled wine, and every island has their own variation. I’m cutting down the sugar in this version and boosting the flavor with five-spice powder instead of the traditional cloves and allspice. It can be enjoyed with or without alcohol, but usually not, so the whole family can enjoy it. If you’re entertaining this Dry January, this is the perfect drink to make, and you can let your guests decide whether they wish to imbibe as the base pairs perfectly with a dry sparkling wine. —Kelli Solomon

What You'll Need
Ingredients
  • 1 quart water
  • 2 cups dried sorrel/hibiscus flowers
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1 inch piece of ginger, sliced
  • 2 teaspoons five spice powder
  • 3-4 sticks of cinnamon
  • 4 strips of citrus peel
  • 1 liter citrus seltzer, chilled
Directions
  1. Rinse your sorrel in a colander under cold water to remove any smaller pieces and particles.
  2. Add your sorrel to a large pot. Add all the remaining ingredients except the seltzer, heating over medium-low heat until sugar is fully dissolved.
  3. Cover and let sit at least 15 minutes to cool and infuse.
  4. Strain through a fine filter and let sit until cool in the refrigerator (about 4 hours).
  5. To serve, fill a champagne flute halfway with sorrel (about 4 ounces) and top with seltzer (or sparkling wine). Garnish with additional citrus peel or cinnamon sticks.

See what other Food52ers are saying.

0 Reviews