How to Prepare Sobolo Step by Step

Sobolo, also known as hibiscus tea or bissap, is a popular beverage enjoyed in many parts of Africa, particularly in West Africa and Ghana. It is made from dried hibiscus flowers, which impart a deep red color and a tangy, refreshing flavor.

Sobolo is not only beloved for its taste but also for its health benefits, as it is rich in antioxidants and vitamin C. Its cultural significance and versatility in both traditional and modern recipes make it a beloved drink worth exploring and savoring.

Watch How to Prepare Sobolo

Ingredients

• 3 cups Hibiscus leaves
• 1 1/2 medium-sized ripped pineapple
• 1 cup sugar (any quantity of choice to taste)
• 3 grains of Hwentia, cloves prekese (optional)
• 2 teaspoons of Pineapple syrup (optional)

Equipment 

• Saucepan
• Knife
• Blender
• Chopping board
• Fine mesh strainer
• Glasses to serve

Directions

• Pour in Hibiscus leaves into a large saucepan
• Then add enough water to cover up
• Place leaves soaked in water on fire under high heat
• Wash pineapple with vinegar if you have one, to clean it.
• Peel pineapple and ginger
• Chop pineapple fruit and set aside
• Add the pineapple peels and hwentia, cloves, or prekese to boiling leaves
• Allow it to boil for 20-30mins
• Strain leaves with a colander (use your clean hand to squeeze out the juice) and separate the drink from the cooked leaves and peels.
• Blend pineapple fruit and ginger until evenly smooth
• Pour blended juice into the sobolo drink and stir
• Let the drink cool down completely before you add in your sugar (until desired sweetness) and pineapple syrup (if preferred)

Notes

• You can preserve sobolo by adding lime juice or storing it in a freezer
• You can add some apples (or watermelons), and orange rind slices to garnish your drink
• You can store the cooked Hibiscus leaves in the fridge in case you want to reuse it