Sudanese Karkade is a vibrant, tart hibiscus tea made by steeping dried hibiscus flowers in hot water with sugar and serving over ice. This traditional Sudanese beverage is refreshing, naturally caffeine-free, and simple to prepare at home.
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Add dried hibiscus flowers to a large bowl or pan.
Pour hot water over the flowers and let them steep until the water is deeply colored.
Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove the hibiscus flowers.
Stir in the sugar until it is completely dissolved.
Fill glasses with ice and pour the Karkade over to serve.
Store prepared Karkade in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days; serve chilled or reheat gently.
Fresh hibiscus flowers will work but require more volume and may produce a milder flavor. Dried flowers are concentrated and more commonly used in traditional Sudanese Karkade.
Refrigerate prepared Karkade in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Reheat gently or serve chilled.
Yes. Start with 1/2 cup sugar and taste after steeping; add more to preference or reduce sugar for a tangier brew.
Yes, hibiscus tea is naturally caffeine-free, making it suitable for any time of day.
Use hot (not boiling) water and steep for 5–10 minutes to avoid over-extracting bitterness. Strain well before serving.
