Hibiscus, Ginger & Clove Tea
Hibiscus, Ginger & Clove Tea is a bold, aromatic herbal infusion known for its vibrant color and warming, slightly tart flavor. Hibiscus petals bring a bright, cranberry-like tang, ginger adds gentle heat and digestive support, and cloves contribute depth with their warm spice notes. Together, they create a soothing tea that can be enjoyed hot for comfort or chilled for a refreshing iced drink. Naturally caffeine-free, this tea is often appreciated for its antioxidant properties and calming qualities. Whether served in the morning to awaken your senses or in the evening to wind down, this simple blend is easy to prepare and deeply satisfying. With just a few ingredients and a short steeping time, it’s a practical and flavorful addition to any daily wellness routine.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Simmer time: 10 minutes
Steeping time: 5 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Yield: 2 cups (about 2 servings)
Ingredients
Dried hibiscus petals: 1 tablespoon
Fresh ginger: 1 teaspoon, sliced or lightly crushed
Whole cloves: 2–3
Water: 2 cups (480 ml)
Honey or stevia (optional): to taste
Instructions
Rinse dried hibiscus petals briefly under cool water to remove dust or debris.
Peel and slice fresh ginger thinly or crush lightly to release flavor.
In a small saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a gentle boil.
Add hibiscus petals, sliced ginger, and whole cloves to the boiling water.
Reduce heat to low and simmer gently for 8–10 minutes.
Turn off the heat and allow the tea to steep for an additional 5 minutes for deeper flavor.
Taste the tea and adjust steeping time if you prefer a stronger or milder infusion.
Strain the tea through a fine mesh strainer into cups or a teapot.
Add honey or stevia if desired and stir until dissolved.
Serve hot, or allow to cool and refrigerate for a refreshing iced tea.
Tips
Use high-quality dried hibiscus petals for the best color and flavor.
Crush ginger slightly before simmering to intensify its aroma.
Avoid overboiling hibiscus, as it may develop excessive bitterness.
Taste after steeping and adjust sweetness carefully, as hibiscus is naturally tart.
Add a slice of lemon or orange peel for a citrusy brightness.
Store leftover tea in a glass container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheat gently without boiling to maintain flavor integrity.
Use filtered water for a cleaner, smoother taste.
Experiment with the number of cloves; more cloves add warmth but can overpower.
For iced tea, brew slightly stronger to balance dilution from ice.
Variations
Add cinnamon sticks for a spiced winter tea.
Include dried orange peel for a citrus-infused twist.
Replace cloves with star anise for a licorice-like aroma.
Blend with green tea leaves for a lightly caffeinated version.
Add fresh mint leaves for a cooling contrast.
Mix in a small piece of turmeric root for anti-inflammatory benefits.
Sweeten with maple syrup or agave for different flavor notes.
Add rose petals for a floral, aromatic blend.
Chill and carbonate lightly for a sparkling herbal beverage.
Combine with apple slices while simmering for a naturally sweet, fruity infusion.
Q&A
Is this tea caffeine-free?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally caffeine-free.
Can I use ground ginger instead of fresh?
Fresh is best, but use 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger if needed.
How long can I store it?
Up to 2 days refrigerated in an airtight container.
Can I make a larger batch?
Yes, simply scale ingredients proportionally.
Is hibiscus safe for daily consumption?
Generally yes, but consult a healthcare professional if you have medical concerns.
Can I drink it cold? Absolutely; it makes an excellent iced herbal tea.
Does it need sweetener?
Not necessarily; adjust according to taste.
Can I reuse the petals?
You can steep once more, but flavor will be milder.
Does ginger make it spicy?
It adds warmth rather than strong heat, depending on quantity.
Is it suitable for kids?
Yes, though you may want to reduce cloves and ginger for a milder taste.
Nutrition
(Approximate per cup, unsweetened)
Calories: 5
Carbohydrates: 1 g
Sugar: 0 g
Fat: 0 g
Fiber: 0–0.5 g
Sodium: 2 mg
Conclusion
Hibiscus, Ginger & Clove Tea is a vibrant and aromatic herbal drink that combines tangy, spicy, and warming flavors into a soothing cup. Easy to prepare and naturally caffeine-free, it’s a versatile beverage that works equally well hot or chilled. The balance of hibiscus’ tartness, ginger’s gentle heat, and clove’s rich spice creates a comforting tea suitable for relaxation, digestion, or simple daily hydration. With plenty of variations and customization options, you can adapt the recipe to your personal taste preferences while still enjoying its vibrant color and fragrant aroma. Whether served as a calming evening drink or a refreshing iced infusion, this tea offers a simple, nourishing ritual that’s both flavorful and satisfying.