Traditional Malagasy bissap

Bissap is a refreshing, traditional drink that originated in West Africa and is consumed in many parts of Africa, including Madagascar. This drink is made from dried hibiscus flowers, also known as roselle flowers. The flowers are infused in hot water, then sweetened with cane sugar and flavored with lime juice and fresh ginger. Bissap offers a tangy, slightly sweet flavor with distinct floral notes. It is often served chilled, sometimes with crushed ice, and can be accompanied by fresh mint leaves for an extra touch of freshness. Bissap is prized for its delicious flavor and thirst-quenching properties, making it a popular drink for cooling off on hot days.
  • DIFFICULTY: Easy
  • 45 MINuteS

Ingredients

Servings: 6 to 8

  • 250 g dried hibiscus flowers
  • 1.5 liters of water
  • 200 g cane sugar
    (adjust to taste)
  • Juice of 2 limes
  • 1 piece fresh ginger
    (approx. 5 cm), peeled and sliced
  • Crushed ice (optional)
  • Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions :

Step 1
Rinse hibiscus flowers in cold water to remove any impurities. Put them in a large container.
Step 2
Bring 1.5 liters of water to the boil in a saucepan. Pour the boiling water over the hibiscus flowers in the container. Leave to infuse for about 30 minutes.
Step 3
Filter the liquid through a fine sieve or strainer to remove the hibiscus flowers. Squeeze the flowers well to extract all the juice.
Step 4
Transfer the hibiscus juice to a clean saucepan. Add the cane sugar and stir until completely dissolved.
Step 5
Add the lime juice and ginger slices to the pan. Simmer over low heat for about 10 minutes to allow the flavours to blend.

Step 6
Remove from heat and allow to cool to room temperature. Once cool, remove the ginger slices.
Step 7
Transfer the Bissap to a carafe or pitcher and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Step 8
Serve chilled over crushed ice, if desired. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for an extra touch of freshness.
Step 9
Enjoy this delicious Malagasy Bissap with traditional dishes or as an aperitif with friends.

Note: You can adjust the amount of sugar and lemon to suit your personal preferences. Some like their Bissap sweeter, while others prefer a more tangy taste.

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