Prickly Pear Hibiscus Terrace

Prickly pear adds a mild fruit sweetness to hibiscus, with lime giving the finish a little extra definition. The tea supplies most of the tartness and color, so the prickly pear flavor remains fairly delicate. Use plain juice rather than a sweet cocktail syrup for the intended balance. This is a bright, caffeine-free cooler with a soft fruit note underneath its sharper first impression. It works well as a simple party pour without trying to mimic an alcoholic classic.

Ingredients

• 1 tea bag Hibiscus tea
• 6 oz Water
• 2 oz Prickly pear juice
• 1/4 oz Lime juice

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

Lime · a little vitamin C

Lime contributes a little vitamin C for collagen formation for healthy skin; hibiscus brings a ruby color and tart brewed flavor in this recipe.

Prickly pear · a flavor worth noticing

Using prickly pear beside hibiscus and lime gives the glass a mellow, melon-like sweetness, creating its own flavor without needing carbonation or an alcoholic pour.