![Hibiscus flower drink or Kerkede](https://www.tasteofsouthsudan.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Hibiscus-Sabdariffa-drink-Kerkede.jpg)
Hibiscus flower drink, a cold sweet drink
Hibiscus Flower Drink Kerkede
A sweet drink consumed cold or hot as tea. Kerkede is the name of the drink made from the Hibiscus Sabdariffa flower in South Sudan. The flower has a ruby red color and slightly sour taste, similar to, but milder, than cranberry. This drink is a refreshing cold drink appropriate for summer days. It contains no caffeine or carbonation. It has some medicinal properties. High in ascorbic acid, it acts as an anti-oxidant. It acts as antihypertensive because of it’s diuretic properties. It is reported to lower cholesterol. Our ancestors have used it to soothe colds and aching limbs.
![Dried Hibiscus Sabdariffa flowers](https://www.tasteofsouthsudan.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Hibiscus-Sabdariffa-dry.jpg)
Hibiscus Sabdariffa flowers, dried
How to make Hibiscus flower drink or Kerkede
Kerkede drink is simple to make. Soak 1 cup of dry Hibiscus flower in 2 cups of room temperature water for at least 3 hours. The flower will expand to three times its size as it absorbs water and infuses. Then add 6 cups of water bringing the total to 8 cups of water. Add 1/2 cup of sugar and mix well to desired sweetness. Pour into glasses and serve.