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JAM | Dec 17, 2024

How to make sorrel at home—Jamaican style

ABIGAIL BARRETT

ABIGAIL BARRETT / Our Today

Reading Time: 2 minutes
Sorrel steeping (Photo: seasonedskilletblog.com)

All who can’t make sorrel from scratch ah Bat! Just kidding! In any case, don’t worry Our Today will teach the Bats how to fly, by guiding you through the steps to make a hearty sorrel mix—the Jamaican way, this Christmas season!

Ginger is not your enemy!

Ginger is optional but preferred in Jamaican sorrel drinks. Most Jamaicans simply boil their ginger to their desired strength. Some prefer a punch, while some prefer a subtle hint, either way is fine.

Instructions

Bottled Sorrel (Photo: seasonedskilletblog.com)

Start by boiling your ginger. The amount of ginger you use would depend on the amount of sorrel you are trying to make and your desired strength.

Once the ginger is boiled to that point, turn the heat off, then place your fresh sorrel buds inside the hot water for it to steam.

Some folks boil their sorrel, but it is completely unnecessary and kills most of the nutritional benefits.

Leave the sorrel soaking overnight to get full potency.

Strain your mixture, sweetened with cane sugar to taste, and as little or as much white rum or fruit wine as you like, add a couple of pimento seeds to the mix (these stay in for as long as the drink lasts) and that’s it!

Sorrel drink (Photo: Canva)

The breakdown

  • 2 pounds Fresh Sorrel, rinsed (add more if you’re making a bigger batch)
  • 1 pound or less of Fresh Ginger, pounded
  • 10 whole pimento seeds
  • 16 1/2 cups Water (Makes a Gallon)
  • 1 cup Brown Sugar, or sweeten to taste
  • J. Wray & Nephew Red Label Wine, or  fruit wine to taste (or all three)

Benefits of drinking Sorrel

Reasons not to boil your Sorrel.

Sorrel juice offers numerous health benefits due to its rich nutritional profile. It is packed with vitamin C, which supports a healthy immune system and promotes skin health. Its antioxidant properties help combat free radicals, reducing inflammation and lowering the risk of chronic diseases. Sorrel juice is also known for its ability to regulate blood pressure, thanks to its natural diuretic effect, which helps flush excess sodium from the body.

Additionally, it aids in improving digestion, boosting liver health, and supporting weight management due to its low-calorie content. The beverage may also contribute to cholesterol control and heart health by improving lipid profiles. With its cooling and hydrating qualities, sorrel juice is a refreshing way to stay healthy while enjoying its tangy flavour.

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