Hibiscus and Strawberry Juice: A Refreshing and Healthy Beverage for All Seasons

Ingredients:

• 5 cups of water
• ½ cup dried hibiscus leaves
• 1 cup mashed strawberries
• 10 fresh mint leaves
• 2–3 tablespoons honey (or sugar, as preferred)
• Ice cubes
• Strawberry slices and mint leaves for garnish

Preparation Steps:

1. Prepare the Juice Base:  
   In a pot over high heat, bring the water to a boil. Once boiling, add the hibiscus leaves and let it simmer for 1–2 minutes.
2. Steep the Ingredients:  
   Remove the pot from heat. Add the mashed strawberries, mint leaves, and honey (or sugar) to the water. Stir well until the honey or sugar is fully dissolved.
3. Cool and Steep:  
   Let the mixture steep for 20–30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend perfectly.
4. Strain the Juice:  
   Use a strainer to remove the leaves and strawberry pulp. Transfer the strained juice to a pitcher and refrigerate until completely chilled.
5. Serve:  
   Pour the juice into glasses over ice cubes. Garnish with fresh strawberry slices and mint leaves for an appealing look and refreshing taste.
6. Additional Tips:
   • Add lemon slices to enhance the citrusy flavor.
   • Try incorporating a hint of grated ginger for a spicy, invigorating twist.

Health Benefits:

• Hibiscus: Rich in powerful antioxidants, it helps improve blood circulation and reduce high blood pressure. It also has calming effects that may help alleviate stress. Additionally, hibiscus lowers bad cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of heart disease, and promotes healthy digestion by easing issues like indigestion and constipation.
• Strawberries: Packed with vitamin C and fiber, they boost immunity and improve heart health. Strawberries also contribute to radiant skin and strong hair, while their antioxidants protect the body from various diseases.

Hibiscus and strawberry juice is the perfect choice to cool down during the summer while energizing your body. Try this refreshing drink on a hot day, and you’ll find it not only delicious but also highly beneficial.

Enjoy your drink!

Caution:

It’s best to avoid hibiscus and strawberry juice for those with blood pressure issues or a hibiscus allergy. Additionally, for individuals on sugar-free or honey-free diets, consider adjusting the recipe, as the ingredients may contain high sugar content.

Calories and Nutritional Values:

Here’s an estimate of the caloric and nutritional content of the ingredients used in hibiscus and strawberry juice. Note that these values may vary based on exact quantities and ingredient types:

1. Water:
   • Calories: 0 (water contains no calories)
2. Dried Hibiscus Leaves (½ cup):
   • Calories: Approximately 50–60 kcal
   • Protein: 2 g
   • Fat: 0 g
   • Carbohydrates: 12 g
   • Fiber: 2 g
   • Vitamins and Minerals: Rich in antioxidants and a good source of vitamin C.
3. Mashed Strawberries (1 cup):
   • Calories: Approximately 50 kcal
   • Protein: 1 g
   • Fat: 0.5 g
   • Carbohydrates: 12 g
   • Fiber: 3 g
   • Vitamins and Minerals: High in vitamin C, manganese, and folate.
4. Fresh Mint Leaves (10 leaves):
   • Calories: Approximately 5 kcal
   • Protein: 0.3 g
   • Fat: 0.1 g
   • Carbohydrates: 1 g
   • Fiber: 0.5 g
   • Vitamins and Minerals: Contains vitamins A and C, iron, and magnesium.
5. Honey (2–3 tablespoons):
   • Calories: Approximately 120–180 kcal (depending on quantity)
   • Protein: 0.3 g
   • Fat: 0 g
   • Carbohydrates: 33 g
   • Fiber: 0 g
   • Vitamins and Minerals: Contains small amounts of vitamins and minerals.
6. Ice:
   • Calories: 0 (ice contains no calories)

Estimated Total for the Full Recipe (without honey):

• Calories: Around 100–110 kcal per cup (250 ml), depending on the amount of honey or sugar used.

Note: These nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on the specific preparation method and individual ingredients.