Hibiscus Lemonade

It finally warmed up, so I decided to make a nice big batch to enjoy while I finished planting the herbs and vegis on Victoria Day. This one comes from my mom who always makes it better than I do, but I keep trying to perfect it, and I think I'm close.

Hibiscus Lemonade

1 c dried hibiscus flowers
1/2 - 1 c honey
3 lemons
2 liters water

In a large glass container add flowers and honey, boil water, pour into glass container and stir well, allow to cool, squeeze in the juice and pulp of lemons, strain and serve with a lemon wedge over ice.

Serve alone or with a nice bowl of gazpacho and fresh bread. YUM!

Tip: Also makes great popsicles!

Medicinal FAQS: Flower extract has been used in many folk remedies for liver disorders, high blood pressure and as aphrodisiac. Hibiscus relieves stomach problems, sweetens breath and soothes nerves. An extract of the hibiscus flowers lower cholesterol content in blood serum and helps to prevent oxidation of LDL (bad cholesterol). Daily uptake of Hibiscus tea is useful for reducing high blood pressure.

Irish Cream Liqueur

This week we saw temperatures so frigid that the only place in the world colder was Siberia, so I must say, now is really the time for something to warm the belly! My only wish would be that I was close enough to make it for my loved ones this holiday season. So lets make a double batch and toast to those too far away to wrap our arms around this year!

Irish Cream Liqueur

1 3/4 c Irish Whiskey
1 14 oz can sweetened condensed milk
1 c heavy cream
4 eggs
2 T chocolate syrup
2 T instant coffee
1 t vanilla extract
1/2 t almond extract

Combine all ingredients in blender until well blended and store in an air tight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Stir before serving.

Serve in coffee, alone or with whatever pleases you!