This traditional tea is very popular in Egypt and Sudan and was said to be the preferred drink of the pharaohs. In Egypt, wedding celebrations are usually toasted with a glass of hibiscus tea. Hibiscus is extremely hydrating and medicinally used in history (when taken in large amounts) to control blood pressure. Karkade can be found at almost every vendor on busy street corners, train stations and markets. We have made this version for our Essential Oils of Egypt Wellness Workshop by adding doTERRA Citrus Bliss ( a blend of Wild Sweet Orange, Tangerine, Bergamot, Clementine, Lemon, Grapefruit, Mandarin, and Vanilla Bean Extract) and Ginger Essential.
6 cups water
3 cups dried hibiscus flowers (I got mine at Vitamin Cottage)
3 cups agave (original recipes called for sugar)
3 tsp vanilla
Juice of 2 oranges (original recipes called for ½ cup lemon juice)
6 drops doTERRA Citrus Bliss Essential Oil (original recipes called for orange blossom water)
1 drop doTERRA Ginger Essential Oil (original recipes called for fresh grated ginger)
Mint for Garnish
Bring the water to a boil and add hibiscus flowers. Immediately take off heat and let “brew” for 10-15 minutes.
Strain flowers with tight strainer or cheesecloth. While still warm add the agave and vanilla. Let cool. Add orange juice and essential oils.
This recipe makes more of a “mix” or “base” so you want to …mix 50/50 with water (or we used La Croix Grapefruit Sparkling Water) and serve over ice. Garnish with mint and serve. You can also add vodka for a refreshing cocktail,l or mix 50/50 with red wine for an “Egyptian Sangria”!
