Karkadeh (hibiscus drink)

Instructions

1. Rinse the hibiscus flowers quickly under cold water to remove any dust.
2. Bring the water to the boil in a saucepan, then turn off the heat.
3. Add the hibiscus flowers and let them infuse for 10 minutes, until the colour is a deep red.
4. Strain the infusion through a fine sieve or a cloth to remove the flowers.
5. Add the sugar and stir until fully dissolved, then the lemon juice if you're using it.
6. Leave to cool, then keep in the fridge for at least 1 hour.
7. Serve iced with a few fresh mint leaves in each glass.