The start of summer is cause for celebration: it’s two-for-one healthy drink recipe time! These zingy, flavor-packed drinks are the perfect way to keep hydrated over the summer. Hailing from Nigeria, Zobo is made by infusing tart hibiscus flowers with warming ginger, turmeric, and oranges for a bright pink, kid-approved soda alternative. Our Creamy Coconut Limeade, inspired by the Brazilian classic, is a simple low-sugar recipe that can be knocked up in a flash; perfect for serving at family picnics or barbecues, or making large batches to store in the fridge for a healthy chilled sip!
Serves: 6–8
Prep Time: 20 mins
Notes: dairy-free, gluten-free, no-bake, serve hot or cold
Ingredients
1 C dried hibiscus, rinsed under cold water to remove sediment
1-inch piece ginger, peeled and cut into coins
1-inch piece turmeric, peeled and cut into coins
1 C pineapple juice
2 oranges, juiced (final yield approx. 1 C)
4 C water
½ tsp dried cloves
2 cinnamon sticks
Method
- Add the hibiscus, ginger, turmeric, pineapple juice, water, clove buds and cinnamon sticks to a small saucepan, and heat over medium.
- Bring to a boil, then remove from the heat and steep for as long as possible, minimum 5 mins. The flavor will deepen as it steeps: 10 mins is the sweet spot.
- Serve warm, or transfer to the fridge and chill, then serve over ice.
| Ingredients | Substitution |
| Pineapple juice | Apple juice (will change flavor) |
| Fresh turmeric | Ground turmeric (½ tsp) |
| Recipe Notes |
| Zobo is a Nigerian drink made from hibiscus. Zobo (or Zoborodo) is the Hausa word for both the plant and the drink. It’s known by different names across many countries, including “Jamaica” in Mexico, “Sorrel Drink” in the Caribbean and “Omulete” in Namibia. Add seltzer for a fizzy version! |
Creamy Coconut Limeade
Serves: 6
Prep Time: 15 mins
Notes: dairy-free, gluten-free, no-bake, requires blending
Ingredients
2 C coconut water
1 C unsweetened coconut milk (canned)
3 limes, juiced (final yield approx. ½ C)
2 Tbsp maple syrup
⅛ tsp kosher salt
Method
- Add the coconut water, coconut milk, lime juice, maple syrup and salt to a blender or food processor. Blend on high for 30–90 seconds (more for a lower-speed blender) or until smooth and slightly frothy.
- Put a strainer over a large bowl, and tip the mixture into it, straining any separated fat granules (this is normal when blending fat-containing ingredients with acidic ingredients). Once strained, pour into a pitcher and refrigerate until cool. Serve.
| Ingredients | Substitution |
| Limes | Lemons for lemonade (1:1) |
| Maple syrup | Honey, allulose syrup |
| Recipe Notes |
| This healthy drink recipe is inspired by the classic Brazilian coconut limeade, which is made of whole limes, condensed milk and water. You can substitute lemons for limes here, for a less acidic version. |
