Savor the Refreshing Taste of Sobolo: A Complete Guide to this Popular Hibiscus Drink

Sobolo, also known as hibiscus tea or bissap, is a popular and refreshing drink in many West African countries. Here's a step-by-step process for making Sobolo:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups dried hibiscus petals (sorrel or bissap)

• 8 cups water

• 1 cup sugar (adjust to taste)

• 1-2 teaspoons grated ginger

• 1-2 cinnamon sticks

• Optional: Orange or lemon peel for added flavor

• Ice cubes (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare Hibiscus Petals:

• Rinse the dried hibiscus petals thoroughly under cold water to remove any dust or debris.

1. Boil Water:

• In a large pot, bring 8 cups of water to a boil.

1. Add Hibiscus Petals:

• Once the water is boiling, add the rinsed hibiscus petals to the pot.

1. Add Ginger and Cinnamon:

• Add 1-2 teaspoons of grated ginger and 1-2 cinnamon sticks to the pot. These ingredients enhance the flavor of the Sobolo.

1. Simmer:

• Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 15-20 minutes. This allows the flavors to infuse.

1. Strain the Mixture:

• After simmering, strain the liquid to separate the hibiscus petals and spices. You can use a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth.

1. Sweeten the Sobolo:

• While the liquid is still warm, add sugar to taste. Start with 1 cup and adjust according to your sweetness preference. Stir well to dissolve the sugar.

1. Cool:

• Allow the Sobolo mixture to cool to room temperature. You can speed up the cooling process by placing the pot in the refrigerator.

1. Optional: Add Citrus Peel:

• For added citrus flavor, you can include strips of orange or lemon peel during the simmering process.

1. Serve:

• Once cooled, serve the Sobolo over ice if desired.

Tips:

• Experiment with the sweetness level to find the right balance for your taste.

• Sobolo can be enjoyed on its own or with a slice of lemon or lime for added freshness.

Enjoy your homemade Sobolo!