Bissap (Hibiscus Drink)

  • Total time - 30 minutes (plus chilling)
  • Preparation - 5 minutes
  • Cooking/Steeping - 25 minutes
  • Servings: 8
  • Country: Mali
A deep red Bissap drink in a glass with ice and a mint leaf.

Bissap has a bright ruby colour and a tart, slightly bitter flavour. Sweetening balances this flavour, and the addition of ginger turns the drink into an invigorating refreshment.

The drink is always served very cold with ice. Adjust the amount of sugar according to the tartness you prefer.

Ingredients

For the Drink

  • 1 cup dried hibiscus flowers (Roselle/Bissap)
  • 2 litres water
  • 0.5 cups (or to taste) sugar (powdered or granulated)
  • 5 cm fresh ginger, peeled and chopped (optional)
  • handful fresh mint, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Base

Pour water into a large pot. Add the dried hibiscus flowers and chopped ginger (if using).

Step 2: Boiling and Steeping

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10–15 minutes. The liquid should acquire a deep ruby colour.

Step 3: Sweetening

Remove the pot from the heat. Strain the drink through a fine sieve (or cloth) to remove all solids.

While the drink is hot, stir in the sugar until completely dissolved. Taste and add more sugar if needed.

Step 4: Chilling

Let the drink cool completely to room temperature, then pour it into a pitcher. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, ideally overnight.

Step 5: Serving

Serve very cold, in glasses filled with ice. For an authentic flavour, you can add a few fresh mint leaves to the glasses.