Drinks
Bissap (Hibiscus Flower Drink)
Ingredients
- - 100 g (1 1/2 cups) dried hibiscus flowers (bissap/sorrel)
- - 1.5 litres (6 cups) water
- - 150 g (3/4 cup) sugar, or to taste
- - 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- - 2 tbsp fresh mint leaves (optional)
Method
- Rinse the dried hibiscus flowers briefly under cold water.
- Bring the water to a boil in a large saucepan, then add the hibiscus flowers and grated ginger.
- Remove from the heat and let steep, covered, for 30 minutes, until deeply coloured and infused.
- Strain the liquid through a fine sieve into a jug, pressing gently on the flowers to extract all the liquid, then discard the solids.
- Stir in the sugar while the liquid is still warm, until fully dissolved.
- Add the mint leaves if using, and chill thoroughly in the refrigerator.
- Serve cold over ice.
Introduction: Made from dried hibiscus flowers (known locally as 'da bilenga' in Mooré), bissap is a vividly coloured, tart and refreshing drink enjoyed throughout Burkina Faso and much of West Africa.
Cultural Background: Made from dried hibiscus flowers (known locally as 'da bilenga' in Mooré), bissap is a vividly coloured, tart and refreshing drink enjoyed throughout Burkina Faso and much of West Africa. It appears at family gatherings, weddings, and festive occasions, often served ice-cold in the heat of the day.
Tips: Steeping longer intensifies both the colour and the tartness; adjust to your taste. Dissolve the sugar while the liquid is still warm for the smoothest result.
Variations: Add a splash of orange blossom water or a few cloves during steeping for extra aromatic depth. Mix with sparkling water for a lightly fizzy version. Naturally vegan as written.
Storage: Refrigerate in a covered jug for up to 5 days.
Reheating: This drink is served cold and does not require reheating.
Nutrition: Approx. 80 kcal, 0 g protein, 20 g carbohydrate, 0 g fat per glass (based on 8 glasses).
FAQs:
Q: Where can I find dried hibiscus flowers?
A: They are widely available in African, Caribbean, and Latin American grocery stores, often labelled as ‘sorrel’ or ‘flor de Jamaica’.
Q: Can I reduce the sugar?
A: Yes, adjust the sugar to taste, or sweeten with honey for a different flavour profile.