Jamaica Mocktail or Cocktail

Agua de Jamaica is a popular agua fresca at the beaches in Mexico. I like making my own so I control the type and amount of sugar.  Aqua frescas or fresh water is an apt name for this refreshing drink and its deep red color makes for beautiful presentation (and stains on your counter top). Agua de Jamaica is a tea made from hibiscus flower. 

4 cups cold filtered water

1 cup Flor de Jamaica (about 1 ounce)

4-8 slices of ginger

4 all spice berries

1/2 cup preferred sugar

Fresh lime juice for serving

Turn off heat and cover to steep for 20 minutes. Strain and discard solids. Store in fridge for up to a week. 

Mocktail

Ice

3 oz tea

1/2 oz lime juice 

2 oz sparkling water

lime wedge or cinnamon stick for garnish

Cocktail

Ice 

3 oz tea

1 1/2 oz favorite tequila, blanco if you have it

1/2 oz lime juice

lime wedge or cinnamon stick for garnish