Zobo is a drink native to West Africa made from the hibiscus plant, Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa), with fruits and spices.[1][2] It is called Zobo in Nigeria and Sobolo in Ghana. It is usually consumed cold and has a tangy, rich flavour.
The drink spread from Africa to the Caribbean via way of the Atlantic slave trade.[3] Zobo typically uses more ingredients than its new world offshoots. Zobo is a rich source of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.[4]
Zobo drink
Preparation
Zobo is made with dried hibiscus leaves, which are washed and then boiled to extract the juice from the leaves.[5] As it is boils, spices like cloves, cinnamon stick, ginger and black pepper corns are added.[6] Some add star anise or other spices. The juice is either boiled with pineapple chunks or peels, or pineapple juice is added after boiling. Orange juice or other juices are optional. The juice is sweetened with either one or a combination of sugar, honey, blended dates or fruit flavoring powder concentrates. Slices of fruits, like oranges or limes, can be added. It is cooled before drinking.[7]
Versions
Versions of this drink, though simpler in ingredients, exist in the Caribbean via way of Africa, called Sorrell in Jamaica, and Agua de Jamaica in Mexico, via way of Jamaica[8]
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