Jamaican Sorrel Drink Recipe

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Jamaican Sorrel Drink is an iconic beverage that is traditionally served at Christmas time in Jamaica.

With its vibrant red hue, tangy taste, and warming spices, it’s a holiday favorite, although it’s equally loved all year-round.

For generations, families have cherished this refreshing drink.

Whether you’ve grown up drinking sorrel or are trying it for the first time, this simple and delicious Jamaican Sorrel Drink Recipe is sure to become one of your favorites!

What is Sorrel?

Sorrel, in the Jamaican context, refers to the deep red sepals (not petals!) of the hibiscus plant known scientifically as Hibiscus sabdariffa. Don’t confuse it with the leafy green sorrel used in European cuisine.

Jamaican sorrel, also called “roselle” in some countries, has a tart, cranberry-like flavor with a slightly floral aroma. This tangy, crimson plant is rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and other nutrients.

The sorrel plant in Jamaica is native to West Africa but has become an integral part of Caribbean culture, particularly in Jamaica, where it’s grown abundantly. The Jamaican sorrel drink, which is made from the sepals of the hibiscus plant, is cherished for its bold flavors and refreshing qualities.

What is Jamaican Sorrel Drink?

Jamaican Sorrel Drink is a traditional beverage that is made from dried or fresh sorrel. This ruby-red drink is sweet, tart, and infused with warming spices like ginger, cinnamon, and pimento (allspice).

Jamaican Sorrel Drink is often sweetened with sugar and can be served cold over ice for a refreshing treat or spiked with rum for a twist — especially during Christmas and New Year festivities. Beyond its fantastic taste, sorrel drink carries deep historical and cultural significance in Jamaica.

What makes Jamaican Sorrel Drink truly special is its ability to evoke nostalgia. For many Jamaicans, a sip of sorrel is a trip down memory lane — a reminder of childhood Christmases, festive gatherings, and the joy of being surrounded by loved ones. Whether served with a splash of rum or not, sorrel drink brings warmth, connection, and a touch of tradition to every celebration.

Which Sorrel Should I Use?

When making Jamaican Sorrel Drink, you’ll want to use dried or fresh hibiscus sabdariffa, specifically known as sorrel in the Caribbean. While dried sorrel is more commonly available year-round, fresh sorrel is often found in markets during the holiday season.

• Dried Sorrel: This is the most accessible option for those outside of the Caribbean. It has a concentrated flavor and is easy to store.
• Fresh Sorrel: If you can get your hands on fresh sorrel, you’ll notice a brighter, more intense flavor. However, the brewing process is the same, though fresh sorrel may take a bit longer to steep.

Why You Will Love This Jamaican Sorrel Drink Recipe

There are several reasons why you’ll love this Jamaican Sorrel Drink Recipe:

1. Bursting with Flavor: The combination of tangy sorrel, spicy ginger, and aromatic spices creates a flavor profile that’s hard to resist.

2. Versatile: Whether enjoyed on its own, or jazzed up with a splash of rum, it fits any occasion.

3. Healthy and Nutrient-Rich: Jamaican Sorrel is loaded with antioxidants, vitamin C, and anti-inflammatory properties.

4. Easy to Make: This Jamaican Sorrel Drink Recipe is straightforward. It uses simple ingredients and minimal kitchen tools.

5. Perfect for Entertaining: This festive drink is a crowd-pleaser during holidays and gatherings.

Ingredients for Jamaican Sorrel Drink

To make Jamaican Sorrel Drink, you will need the following ingredients:

• Fresh sorrel (or dried sorrel)
• Fresh ginger
• Pimento (allspice) berries
• Water
• Cinnamon stick
• Sugar
• Jamaican white rum (optional)

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth
• Large bowl or pitcher
• Funnel (for bottling)
• Bottles or jars for storage

How to Make Jamaican Sorrel Drink

To make Jamaican Sorrel Drink, start by checking for seeds if using fresh sorrel, and remove any that you find. Wash the sorrel thoroughly under cool water. In a large pot, combine the sorrel, ginger, and pimento berries, then add enough water to cover. Bring to a boil, simmer for 7-10 minutes, and then turn off the heat.

Let the mixture steep overnight or for at least 12 hours to enhance the flavors. Once steeped, strain the liquid using a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth, pressing down to extract as much liquid as possible. Repeat straining if needed for a smoother drink.

Sweeten to taste, and if desired, add Jamaican rum for a festive touch. Chill thoroughly before serving over ice.

🍹✨ You can view the step-by-step instructions and the full recipe below.

What to Serve Jamaican Sorrel Drink With

Jamaican Sorrel Drink pairs beautifully with Jamaican Christmas Cake, making it a classic holiday combination.

You can also enjoy this refreshing drink alongside Jamaican favorites like Jamaican curry chicken, jerk chicken, curry goat, oxtail or rice and peas.

Jamaican Sorrel Drink Recipe: FAQs

1. Can I use any type of sugar for Jamaican Sorrel Drink?
Yes, you can use any type of sugar for for Jamaican Sorrel Drink. While brown sugar is commonly used for its rich flavor, all types of sugar will work just fine.

2. Is sorrel drink suitable for all members of the family?
Yes, Jamaican sorrel drink is perfectly suitable for all members of the family, as long as the rum is not used.

3. Is sorrel the same as Hibiscus?
Yes, sorrel is a type of hibiscus flower but they’re not exactly the same. In Jamaica, the term “sorrel” refers specifically to the bright red sepals of the Hibiscus sabdariffa plant, which is a particular type of hibiscus used for making the traditional Jamaican Sorrel Drink.

This variety is different from the ornamental hibiscus flowers commonly found in gardens. While sorrel is technically a type of hibiscus, it’s grown and harvested specifically for its tangy, flavorful sepals.

In other parts of the world, this plant may simply be known as “hibiscus” or “roselle.” So, while all sorrel is a type of hibiscus, not all hibiscus varieties are suitable for making Jamaican sorrel drink.

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