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Egypt Β· Drinks

Karkade

20 min
130 kcal
6 servings

By eatmundo Β· August 4, 2026

KarkadeπŸ‡ͺπŸ‡¬Andy Li Β· CC0 Β· Wikimedia Commons

Same ingredients, elsewhere in the world

5 matches

Dishes from other countries' kitchens, made from the same core ingredients as Karkade. The percentage is the share of ingredients the two recipes have in common.

Same technique: Hot infusion62 recipes from 22 countriesSee all 5 matches

An iconic Egyptian crimson infusion made from dried hibiscus calyces. Served either ice-cold or piping hot, it is prized for its tart, cranberry-like flavor and vibrant deep red hue.

According to eatmundo's ingredient comparison, the closest dish to Karkade from another cuisine is Hibiscus Rose Cooler (Lebanon): the two share 80% of their ingredients.

Ingredients

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6 servings

How to Make It

  • 1

    Rinse the 1 cup of dried hibiscus flowers quickly in a sieve to remove any dust.

  • 2

    In a large pot, bring 6 cups of water to a rolling boil.

  • 3

    Add the rinsed hibiscus flowers to the boiling water and turn off the heat immediately.

  • 4

    Cover the pot tightly with a lid and let the tea steep for at least 15 to 20 minutes.

  • 5

    Strain the infusion through a fine-mesh sieve into a pitcher, pressing on the flowers to extract all the liquid.

  • 6

    Stir in 1 cup of sugar until completely dissolved, tasting to adjust for your preference.

  • 7

    Mix in 1 teaspoon of rose water for a fragrant floral finish.

  • 8

    Serve chilled over plenty of ice, or enjoy warm during the winter months.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Karkade?

Karkade is an Egyptian herbal tea made from dried hibiscus flowers, water, and sugar, often enhanced with rose water. It is served either hot or cold and is a common beverage consumed throughout the year in Egypt.

Can I drink it hot?

Yes, Karkade is traditional both as a refreshing iced summer drink and as a warming tea in winter.

How long can I store it?

It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days in a sealed glass bottle.

Is it naturally tart?

Yes, it has a distinctively sharp, sour flavor similar to cranberries, which is why it requires a good amount of sugar.

Can I add other spices?

Some variations include a small piece of cinnamon stick or a clove steeped along with the flowers for added warmth.

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