Published:
Jul 17th 2021
by 
Nutritionally reviewed by 
Last updated: Oct 18th 2025
This recipe for Trinidad Sorrel showcases the vibrant flavors of hibiscus flowers, creating a tangy and aromatic drink perfect for festive occasions. Infused with ginger and cloves, it offers a unique depth that elevates its refreshing taste. Traditionally enjoyed during the Christmas season in Trinidad and Tobago, this delightful beverage can be served chilled over ice or warmed for a cozy experience.
Pro Tip This recipe captures the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean with its delightful blend of tart sorrel, spicy ginger, and aromatic cloves. It's easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to deepen. Versatile enough to be enjoyed chilled or warm, this drink is perfect for festive gatherings or cozy evenings at home.
Key nutrients
- Vitamin C: from sorrel flowers and orange peel — Supports immune health and helps protect cells from oxidative stress.
- Antioxidants: from sorrel flowers, cloves, and cinnamon — May help reduce cell damage from free radicals.
- Gingerols: from fresh ginger — Can support digestive comfort and add anti-inflammatory properties.
- Fiber (trace): from spices and sorrel — Small amounts may aid gentle digestion.
Why it matters
- Antioxidants from botanicals can help support overall wellness.
- Vitamin C is important for skin health and immune function.
- Spices like ginger and cinnamon add flavor with minimal calories.
What to watch
- Added sugar — Brown sugar increases sweetness but also adds extra calories.
- Alcohol (if used) — Rum is optional; skip for a non-alcoholic, family-friendly version.
Make it even better
- Reduce brown sugar or use a natural sweetener to lower added sugars.
- Add fresh citrus juice for extra vitamin C and brightness.
- Serve with Trinidad Pastel, which contains protein and fiber for balanced nutrition.
- Skip rum for a lighter, alcohol-free beverage.
General nutrition information only; verify labels and consult a healthcare professional for personal advice.
References
- Nutrition.gov — Vitamins and Minerals - For information on vitamin C and antioxidants.
- CDC — Nutrition - For general dietary guidance and balanced eating tips.
Best fit
- Vegan: Contains only plant-based ingredients if rum is omitted or a vegan brand is used.
- Gluten Free: Made without gluten-containing ingredients.
- Vegetarian: All ingredients are suitable for a vegetarian diet.
- Low Fat: Naturally low in fat, as it uses water, spices, and fruit.
Use with caution / avoid
- Added sugar: Brown sugar increases carbohydrate content; limit for blood sugar management.
- Alcohol: Optional rum adds alcohol; omit for those avoiding alcohol.
Helpful modifications
- Use a sugar substitute or reduce brown sugar to lower added sugars.
- Omit rum for a non-alcoholic version suitable for all ages.
- Add more citrus peel or ginger for extra flavor without extra sugar.
- Serve with a high-fiber snack like Ezekiel Bread to help balance the drink’s sweetness.
Pair with: Trinidad Pastel or lightly salted nuts for added fiber and healthy fats.
General nutrition information only; verify labels and consult a healthcare professional for personal advice.
No major allergens detected based on the listed ingredients. Always check labels for hidden allergens in sauces or blends.
Notes are based on the listed ingredients; always verify brand labels and local regulations. Swaps may require adjusting cook time and steps; the original recipe isn’t tailored to substitutions.
References
- FDA — Food Allergies - Used for reference on the US Big 9 allergens.
Clean
- Rinse dried sorrel flowers thoroughly to remove dirt and debris before use.
- Wash your hands with soap and water before handling any ingredients.
- Clean all utensils, cutting boards, and the stockpot before starting.
Separate
- Keep raw ingredients and ready-to-drink sorrel separate to avoid cross-contamination.
- Use a clean strainer for filtering the sorrel mixture after steeping.
Cook
- Bring water to a full boil before adding spices and sorrel flowers.
- Simmer the mixture as directed to ensure proper infusion and safety.
Chill
- Cool the sorrel drink to room temperature before refrigerating.
- Store leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
References
- CDC — Food Safety - General food safety guidelines for home-prepared foods.
- FSIS — Food Safety Basics - Guidance on cleaning, separating, cooking, and chilling foods safely.
- Sorrel drinks get their vibrant red color from dried hibiscus flowers, which lend a tangy, floral flavor.
- Traditionally served at Christmas in Trinidad and Tobago, sorrel is enjoyed both chilled and warm.
- Steeping the sorrel flowers overnight deepens the flavor and boosts the drink’s rich hue.
- Adding ginger and cloves gives the beverage a spicy, aromatic note that balances its tartness.
- The optional rum adds a festive kick, making this drink a holiday favorite for many families.
Name & origins
Sorrel is a festive Caribbean drink with roots in West African culinary traditions, especially popular in Trinidad and Tobago.
Globally, Sorrel has different variations and names, such as Roselle/Rosella Juice, Hibiscus Tea, Agua de Jamaica (Mexico and Central America), Bissap (several West African countries, such as Senegal), Zobo (Nigeria) and Flor de Jamaica (Central America).
Ingredient spotlight
- Sorrel (hibiscus flowers): Provides a tart, fruity base and striking red color.
- Ginger: Adds a warming, spicy kick to the drink’s flavor profile.
- Cloves: Infuse the beverage with deep, aromatic spice notes.
- Brown sugar: Sweetens and balances the natural tartness of the sorrel.
Technique tidbit
Steeping the sorrel mixture overnight allows flavors from spices and flowers to fully infuse, resulting in a richer, more complex drink.
Before you start
- Gather all ingredients and equipment for this recipe to streamline the process.
- Ensure your stockpot is clean and ready for boiling water.
- Rinse sorrel flowers thoroughly to remove any debris before use.
During cooking
- Watch for the water to boil before adding spices for optimal infusion.
- Look for a rich color change in the liquid as the sorrel simmers.
- Avoid overcooking the sorrel flowers to prevent bitterness.
- Simmer in batches if your pot is too small to avoid overcrowding.
Make-ahead & storage
- Prepare the sorrel mixture a day in advance for deeper flavor development.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Common mistakes
- Skipping overnight steeping → results in a weaker flavor profile.
- Adding rum too early → can evaporate alcohol and alter taste.
Serve with
- Trinidad Pastel or quinoa to balance the drink's tartness.
- Salfish Buljol for a refreshing contrast.
- Parched Corn for a crunchy and savory pairing.
- Trinidad Paime or Trinidad Sweet Bread for a sweet complement.
Toppings & textures
- Fresh mint leaves for a herby and aromatic touch.
- A squeeze of lime juice to enhance the drink's acidity.
Occasions
- This recipe shines during festive gatherings and holiday celebrations.
Substitutions
- If you lack brown sugar, use honey for a sweeter and floral flavor.
- For a gluten-free option, ensure all spices and additives are certified gluten-free.
Variations
- In Jamaica, sorrel is often blended with rum and ginger beer for a fizzy twist.
- Add fresh fruits like pomerac or mango for a tropical flair while maintaining the essence of this recipe.
Refrigerate
- Cool the sorrel drink to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to one week for optimal flavor.
Freeze
- Freezing not recommended as it may alter the texture and flavor of the drink.
Reheat
- Gently warm the sorrel on the stovetop over low heat until steaming hot throughout.
- Add a splash of water if needed to adjust consistency before serving warm.
Repurpose ideas
- Use leftover sorrel as a base for cocktails or mocktails for a refreshing twist.
- Incorporate it into salad dressings for a tangy flavor boost.
- Sorrel Flowers (dried) – Provides the tangy base and vibrant color for the drink.
- Water – The medium for extracting all the delicious flavors.
- Cinnamon – Adds a warm, festive spice to complement the cloves and ginger.
- Cloves – Provides a woody, aromatic flavor that deepens the spiced profile.
- Ginger – Offers a spicy kick to balance the tartness of the sorrel.
- Bay Leaf – Introduces subtle aromatic notes.
- Orange Peel – Adds a refreshing citrus twist to elevate the tart flavor.
- Brown Sugar – Sweetens the drink and enhances the sorrel’s natural tartness.
- Vanilla Extract (or Mixed Essence) – Smoothens and rounds out the flavor profile.
- Rum (optional) – Adds a celebratory touch for holiday gatherings.
Can I make Trini Sorrel without adding sugar?
Yes, you can adjust the sweetness to your preference. You can use honey, agave syrup, or any other sweetener as a substitute for brown sugar, or leave it unsweetened.
What can I use instead of rum in Trini Sorrel?
If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, you can replace the rum with apple cider for a fruity variation, or simply enjoy it without alcohol.
Can I use fresh sorrel instead of dried sorrel flowers?
The taste of the sorrel drink is similar whether you use fresh or dried sorrel flowers. However, if you're using fresh flowers, you'll need to use about 1.5 times the amount to match the intensity of the dried version. Fresh flowers also require more cleaning, which can increase your preparation time. Dried sorrel flowers are more convenient as they are pre-cleaned and ready to use, making the process quicker. This recipe specifically uses dried sorrel flowers for their ease and consistency.
Time & Serves
Ingredients
250 grams Sorrel Flowers (dried)
3 liters of water
6 Cloves Whole
7 grams fresh ginger, thinly sliced
1 Bay Leaf
200 grams Brown Sugar (or to taste)
1.5 ounces white Rum (optional)
2 cinnamon sticks
1 small orange peel
1 tsp vanilla extract (or mixed essence)
Instructions
Rinse and clean the sorrel flowers thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.
Thinly slice the ginger and set aside.
In a large stockpot, bring 3 liters of water to boil.
Add the cinnamon sticks, cloves, ginger, bay leaf, and orange peel to the pot. Reduce the heat and simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the spices to infuse fully into the water.
Add the cleaned sorrel flowers to the pot and simmer for 30 minutes, gently stirring occasionally.
Cover the pot and allow it to steep overnight (12–18 hours) for a stronger flavor.
Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer into a pitcher, pressing gently to extract all the liquid, and discard the solids. Avoid pouring the last bit of liquid during straining to prevent gritty sediment in your drink.
Stir in the brown sugar and vanilla extract, adjusting the sweetness to taste.
Optional - If the sorrel mixture is too potent, add some more water.
Optional - Add the rum to your liking and stir.
Serve chilled over ice or warm for a cozy holiday drink.
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