Watermelon Hibiscus Iced Tea
Watermelon hibiscus iced tea is a refreshing way to cool down on warm days.
It blends the natural sweetness of watermelon with the tart kick of hibiscus, creating a colorful drink that’s easy to make and just as easy to sip.
Do Hibiscus And Watermelon Go Together?
Yes, watermelon and hibiscus work really well together. Hibiscus brings a tangy, slightly tart note that balances out the sweet, juicy quality of fresh watermelon. The combination is light, crisp, and not overly sugary, which makes it perfect for iced tea. You can blend the watermelon into a puree or juice, then mix it with steeped hibiscus tea for a balanced drink that’s both hydrating and naturally bright in color.
What Not To Mix With Hibiscus Tea?
Avoid adding dairy or milk-based creamers to hibiscus tea. The acidity of hibiscus can cause milk to curdle, which doesn’t look or taste good. It’s also best to skip strong bitter ingredients like concentrated green tea or overly tannic black teas in the same mix. They tend to overpower hibiscus and make the drink taste muddled. Stick with fruit juices, citrus, herbs like mint or basil, and light sweeteners like honey or agave for the best results.
What Flavor Goes Well With Hibiscus Tea?
Hibiscus pairs well with:
- Citrus fruits like orange, lime, and lemon
- Berries such as raspberry or strawberry
- Ginger and mint for a more herbal edge
- Tropical fruits like mango and pineapple
These ingredients complement hibiscus without fighting against its natural tartness. Watermelon is especially good because it adds body and a subtle sweetness without needing extra sugar.
When Should I Not Drink Hibiscus Tea?
While hibiscus tea is safe for most people, there are a few cases where you should check first. If you have low blood pressure, you may want to limit it since hibiscus can cause it to drop further. People taking medication for blood pressure or certain diuretics should consult with a doctor before drinking it regularly. It’s also best to avoid during pregnancy without medical guidance, as hibiscus can affect hormone levels.
Storage Instructions
Store your watermelon hibiscus iced tea in the fridge in a sealed glass or pitcher.
- It stays fresh for up to 4 days.
- Stir well before serving, especially if any separation has occurred.
- Keep fruit pieces or herbs in a strainer if storing with the tea, or remove them after steeping for a smoother finish.
- Serve over ice, and garnish with mint or a wedge of lime if you want to dress it up.
- strainer
- Blender
- 7 bags hibiscus tea
- 5 cups cold water
- ¼ of a large watermelon, cubed
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- juice of 1 lime
- Cold brew the tea. Add the tea bags to a large (64 oz) mason jar or pitcher. Pour in the 5 cups of cold water and give a stir. Close the top and refrigerate for 12 – 24 hours.
- The next day, cube about ¼ of a watermelon and add it to a blender (add roughly enough to produce 2 cups of watermelon juice). Pour in the pineapple juice and blend. Strain the juice into a container.
- Remove the tea from the fridge and discard the tea bags.
- Gently pour the watermelon pineapple juice into the tea. Juice 1 lime into the mixture. Give a good stir. Serve over ice and refrigerate the remaining.
