Cold Drinks & Helados

Agua de Jamaica in Los Angeles

Look for deep crimson jars filled with tart hibiscus tea served ice-cold, balancing sweet and tangy berry notes at Imperial Night Market in Downtown LA on Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings, when a vendor is serving it. Free entry.

2300 E 15th St, Downtown LA · Free entry
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CATEGORY
Cold Drinks & Helados
ORIGIN
Mexico and West Africa
PREPARATION
Dried hibiscus sabdariffa calyces are steeped in hot water, strained, and sweetened.
MARKET
Imperial Night Market, Downtown LA
HERITAGE

The origins of Agua de Jamaica

Agua de jamaica is made from the dried calyces of Hibiscus sabdariffa, a plant native to West Africa.

Deep ruby red appearanceCranberry-like floral tartnessCrisp and refreshing finishLight sweetened herbal infusion

If you like Agua de Jamaica

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Frequently asked questions

What part of the plant is used for agua de jamaica?

The drink is brewed from the calyces, the protective sepals surrounding the hibiscus flower pod.

How sweet is agua de jamaica compared to other aguas frescas?

It balances natural cranberry-like tartness with cane sugar.

Sources