What is Flor de Jamaica (Hibiscus Flower)?

Learn how to clean and prepare dried hibiscus flowers (flor de jamaica) for teas, aguas frescas, and savory dishes. Tart, vibrant, and rich in antioxidants, hibiscus is a pantry staple in Mexican cooking.

Recipe

A rustic ceramic cup filled with dried Hibiscus petals sits on a round, tan clay plate. Some Flor de Jamaica petals spill onto the plate, while natural sunlight casts soft shadows on the light, textured surface.

What is flor de Jamaica, hibiscus flower?

Flor de Jamaica, pronounced ha-MY-ka, is the Spanish name for hibiscus flower, specifically the dried petals of the Hibiscus sabdariffa plant. These deep red flowers are known for their tart, cranberry-like flavor and their versatility in both drinks and savory dishes.

In Mexico and many Latin American countries, flor de jamaica is steeped to make agua de jamaica, a refreshing, slightly tangy hibiscus tea often sweetened with sugar. It’s also used in tacos, jams, salads, and even cocktails.

What are the benefits of Jamaica?

  • Naturally caffeine-free
  • Bold, refreshing flavor
  • Loaded with antioxidants and vitamin C
  • Can be used in sweet and savory recipes
  • Adds natural color to drinks and dishes
A tan, round wooden bowl contains dried, deep red Hibiscus Flower petals on a light gray, textured surface. A few Flor de Jamaica petals are scattered outside the bowl, adding a natural and rustic appearance to the scene.

Where to buy

Hibiscus flowers, also known as “flor de jamaica,” can be purchased at various locations depending on your location. Some options include:

Specialty food markets and health food stores often carry dried hibiscus flowers used to make tea.

Masienda has the best hibiscus, but you can also find it in online retailers like Amazon or websites specializing in herbs and spices like Mountain Rose Herbs, or The Spice House.

Latin American grocery stores, like Fiesta or Michoacana, always carry hibiscus flowers.

Frequently asked questions

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A round wooden bowl holds a loose pile of dried red Hibiscus Flower petals, known as Flor de Jamaica, some of which spill onto a light gray stone surface. The crinkled petals are deep red with slight yellow tips, and a few lie outside the bowl.

Jamaica Flower (Dried Hibiscus Flower)

Alejandra Graf
Learn how to clean and prepare dried hibiscus flowers (flor de jamaica) for teas, aguas frescas, and savory dishes. Tart, vibrant, and rich in antioxidants, hibiscus is a pantry staple in Mexican cooking.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes

Equipment

  • 1 saucer or small pot
  • 1 Stainer

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup dried hibiscus flowers flor de jamaica
  • Water for rinsing and simmering

Instructions
 

  • Place dried hibiscus flowers in a fine mesh strainer or colander.
  • Rinse thoroughly under cold water, rubbing gently to remove dust and debris.

For tea or agua fresca, steep directly.

    For tacos, salsas, or jams:

    • Simmer rinsed hibiscus in 3 cups of water for 10–15 minutes until softened.
    • Drain and use as needed in your recipe.

    Notes

    • Store unused dried hibiscus in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
    • Softened hibiscus can be chopped and sautéed with onion and spices for tacos.
    • Hibiscus is naturally caffeine-free and packed with antioxidants.

    information

    Nutritional information of this recipe is only an estimate, the accuracy for any recipe on this site is not guaranteed.

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