Blooming Delights | Two Tantalizing Hibiscus Recipes
Ah, the hibiscus flower – a vibrant beauty that not only catches the eye but also tantalizes the taste buds! As I sipped on a refreshing glass of hibiscus tea one balmy afternoon, I couldn’t help but wonder: why limit this floral wonder to just beverages? Today, I’m thrilled to share with you two delightful hibiscus recipes that will transform your dining experience into a blooming paradise.
Hibiscus Panna Cotta: A Floral Dessert Dream
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 packet unflavoured gelatine
- 1/4 cup dried hibiscus flowers
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Fresh berries for garnish
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, combine cream, sugar, and hibiscus flowers. Heat gently, stirring until sugar dissolves.
- Remove from heat and let steep for 15 minutes.
- Strain the mixture, discarding the flowers.
- Sprinkle gelatine over 1/4 cup cold water in a small bowl. Let stand for 5 minutes.
- Reheat the cream mixture until hot but not boiling. Stir in the gelatine until dissolved.
- Add vanilla extract and mix well.
- Pour into ramekins and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- To serve, run a knife around the edge and invert onto a plate. Garnish with fresh berries.
Tip: For an extra fruity kick, add a splash of raspberry liqueur to the cream mixture before setting.
Whether you’re hosting a summer soirée or simply treating yourself to a special meal, these hibiscus recipes are sure to impress. So go ahead, let your culinary creativity bloom and enjoy the vibrant flavours of hibiscus in a whole new way!
Hibiscus and Mango Salad: A Tropical Twist
Ingredients:
- 2 cups mixed salad greens
- 1 ripe mango, diced
- 1/4 cup dried hibiscus flowers, rehydrated
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the salad greens, diced mango, and rehydrated hibiscus flowers.
- Toast the sliced almonds in a dry pan until golden brown. Set aside to cool.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, and lime juice to make the dressing.
- Toss the salad with the dressing and season with salt and pepper.
- Sprinkle the toasted almonds over the top before serving.
Tip: For a more substantial meal, add grilled chicken or shrimp to this refreshing salad.
These recipes are a celebration of the hibiscus flower’s versatility, bringing its floral and fruity notes to both sweet and savoury dishes. The panna cotta offers a silky smooth texture with a delicate hibiscus flavour, while the salad provides a refreshing crunch with tropical undertones.