Blood Orange Hibiscus Edge

Blood orange gives hibiscus tea a richer citrus flavor, while black pepper adds a warm aroma that arrives after the tart first sip. The pepper needs to be a tiny measured amount, not a generous grind over the glass. Stir it into the still liquid before chilling. This is a vivid, fairly assertive drink with no spirit substitute involved. The combination is fruity and tart, with just enough spice to make it feel less predictable than an ordinary orange iced tea.

Ingredients

• 1 tea bag Hibiscus tea
• 6 oz Water
• 2 oz Blood orange juice
• 1 tiny pinch Ground black pepper

Make it

1. Brew the tea in the measured water, using the temperature and steeping time on its packet. Remove the tea bag.
2. Cool the tea in a heatproof container, then chill for about 30 minutes.
3. Mash any soft fruit in a separate glass. Lightly bruise herbs or ginger; add these and the listed juices or spices to the cooled tea.
4. Stir well and taste. Remove ginger or herb sprigs when their flavor suits you. Strain if you prefer a smoother drink, then serve chilled.

Benefits

Blood orange · a little vitamin C

Beside hibiscus and black pepper, blood orange offers a little vitamin C, used by your body for normal immune function, as well as a richly flavored citrus sweetness.

A different side of black pepper

There is a warming pepper finish from the measured black pepper in the hibiscus and blood orange mixture, giving that ingredient a place without drowning out the other flavors.