Welcome to ZEST Fruit Drinks - The Home of our signature flavour incorporating Hibiscus and Ginger. At ZEST Fruit Drinks, we take pride in bringing you the vibrant flavour of Hibiscus, affectionately known as sorrel in Jamaica. But did you know that hibiscus is not a true sorrel? Its correct name is Hibiscus Sabdariffa or Roselle, a flower that thrives abundantly on the island. Introduced to Jamaica from west Asia in the 18th century, hibiscus has become a beloved holiday and festive favourite, often infused with fragrant spices like ginger and cloves. And if you really want to take it to the next level, a splash of rum can transport you to the ultimate state of relaxation.
Traditionally, Jamaicans make hibiscus drinks using fresh blooms harvested in December. Luckily, you can now enjoy this delightful treat year-round. Dried hibiscus can be found at Afro/Caribbean markets, health food stores, or conveniently packaged in tea bags at select retailers like Whole Foods. Just steep the blossoms in hot or cold water, and you'll be rewarded with a beautiful ruby-coloured, tangy tea that's reminiscent of cranberry or pomegranate. But hibiscus is not only a delicious ingredient—it also boasts an impressive range of culinary and medicinal uses..
In Caribbean, Mexican, West African, and Egyptian cuisines, it adds a flavourful touch to drinks, jams, jellies, wines, sauces, salads, cooked vegetables, and more. Roselle, as it's sometimes called, can even be dried and used as a natural food colouring. Beyond its culinary charm, hibiscus holds a revered status in Caribbean and African cultures for its medicinal properties. It has long been hailed as a cure-all, believed to cool fevers, lower blood pressure, alleviate coughs and colds, aid in weight loss, and possess anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer effects. Packed with Vitamin C, antioxidants, and minerals, hibiscus is not only a tasty indulgence but also a nutritious addition to your well-being..
As we embrace the global reach of hibiscus, it's fascinating to discover the various names it goes by in different regions. Known as sorrel in Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago, it is called red sorrel in the wider Caribbean. In Latin America, it is referred to as Flor de Jamaica, while in the Levant, Egypt, and Sudan, it is known as Karkadé. The names continue with Chai Kujarat in Iraq, Chai Torsh in Iran, Gumamela in the Philippines, and Bissap, Zoborodo, or Wonjo in West Africa..
Here at ZEST Fruit Drinks, we are devoted to bringing you the true essence of hibiscus in every sip. Explore our range of tantalising flavours, created with love and crafted for your enjoyment. Join us on this flavourful adventure and sign up for news and events to stay updated with our latest creations. Remember, when it comes to hibiscus delights, ZEST Fruit Drinks is your go-to destination. Cheers to a zestful experience!