Friday, April 23, 2010

Foods of Mexico - The Jamaica not to be confused with Jicama

JAMAICA ( HIBISCUS FLOWER)

Hibiscus Flower known is Mexico as Jamaica


Dried Hibiscus flowers

Look for Jamaica flowers (also known as hibiscus or flor de Jamaica) in most Latin grocery stores; they’re often found in the bulk bins or in the dried herbs section. I'm told they have them in Food City.

The leaves and calyces have been used as food and the flowers steeped for tea. Hibiscus has been used in folk medicine as a diuretic and mild laxative, as well as in treating cancer and cardiac and nerve diseases. Although information is limited, the potential for hibiscus use in treating hypertension and cancer, as well as for its lipid-lowering and renal effects, are being investigated.




Read more: http://www.drugs.com/npp/roselle.html#ixzz0ltTXGkYx


INGREDIENTS


3 quarts (12 cups) water

1 (1/2-inch) piece ginger, finely grated

1 1/2 cups dried Jamaica flowers (also known as hibiscus or flor de Jamaica)

1 1/2 cups granulated sugar or natural cane sugar if available

2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice (from 1 large lime)

INSTRUCTIONS

Combine water and ginger in a large pot and bring to a boil over high heat.

Remove from heat and stir in Jamaica flowers and sugar until sugar is dissolved. Let steep 10 minutes.

Strain through a chinois or fine mesh sieve into a large, heat-resistant bowl or pot. Stir in lime juice and set aside to cool. Refrigerate until ready to use. Serve over ice.

You may also add a good Vodka or Rum to your beverage for parties.

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