HOW TO MAKE SOBOLO/ ZOBO/BISSAP/ SORREL DRINK/ HIBISCUS TEA/Masof's kitchen

HOW TO MAKE SOBOLO/ ZOBO/BISSAP/ SORREL DRINK/ HIBISCUS TEA/Masof's kitchen is a medium Ghanaian recipe that serves 8. 120 calories per serving. Recipe by Masof's Kitchen on YouTube.

Prep: 30 min | Cook: 1 hr 10 min | Total: 2 hrs

Cost: $31.65 total, $3.96 per serving

Ingredients

  • 2 cups Dried Hibiscus Flowers (washed and debris removed)
  • 2 medium Oranges (sliced, zest optional)
  • 2 medium Lemons (sliced)
  • 2 stalks Lemongrass Stalks (bruised and cut into pieces)
  • 2 whole Star Anise (whole pods)
  • 1 medium Fresh Pineapple (peeled, core removed; peel saved for infusion, flesh blended)
  • 2 inches Fresh Ginger (half grated, half sliced)
  • 4 whole Cloves (whole cloves)
  • 2 whole Dried Chili Peppers (adjust heat to taste)
  • 1 tsp Grains of Paradise (whole seeds)
  • 4 liters Water (filtered)
  • 1/4 cup Honey (adjust sweetness; can substitute with maple syrup or sugar)
  • as needed Ice Cubes (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Fruit and Aromatics

    Slice the oranges and lemons, peel the pineapple, remove the core, slice the pineapple flesh into small pieces, and place the peels in a Ziploc bag. Store the bag in the refrigerator for the next day.

    Time: PT15M

  2. Wash Hibiscus Flowers

    Rinse the dried hibiscus flowers under cold water and discard any debris.

    Time: PT5M

  3. Combine Base Ingredients

    In a large pot, add the washed hibiscus, pineapple peels, lemongrass pieces, star anise, orange slices, and lemon slices. Pour enough filtered water (about 4 L) to fully cover everything.

    Time: PT5M

  4. Overnight Infusion

    Cover the pot with a lid and place it in the refrigerator to infuse for at least 12 hours (overnight).

    Time: PT0M

  5. Add Spices and Boil

    Remove the pot from the fridge, add grated ginger, sliced ginger, cloves, dried chilies, and grains of paradise. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 30 minutes.

    Time: PT30M

    Temperature: 95°C

  6. First Strain

    Turn off the heat and let the liquid cool slightly. Strain through a fine mesh sieve into a clean pot, discarding the solids.

    Time: PT5M

  7. Blend Pineapple Flesh

    Place the pineapple flesh in a blender with a splash of water and blend until smooth.

    Time: PT5M

  8. Incorporate Pineapple Puree

    Pour the blended pineapple through the sieve into the pot with the hibiscus liquid, stirring to combine.

    Time: PT5M

  9. Second Boil

    Return the pot to the stove, add a little hot water if the volume is low, and bring to a gentle boil for another 20 minutes.

    Time: PT20M

    Temperature: 95°C

  10. Second Strain

    Strain the liquid again through the fine mesh sieve into a clean container.

    Time: PT5M

  11. Final Fine Filtration

    Run the liquid through a nutmeg bag or cheesecloth to remove any remaining fine particles.

    Time: PT2M

  12. Sweeten

    Stir in honey (or your chosen sweetener) until fully dissolved. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.

    Time: PT2M

  13. Cool and Serve

    Allow the drink to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate or serve immediately over ice cubes.

    Time: PT15M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
120
Protein
1 g
Carbohydrates
30 g
Fat
0 g
Fiber
2 g

Dietary info: Vegetarian, Gluten‑Free, Dairy‑Free, Nut‑Free

Allergens: Honey

Last updated: April 20, 2026

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HOW TO MAKE SOBOLO/ ZOBO/BISSAP/ SORREL DRINK/ HIBISCUS TEA/Masof's kitchen

Recipe by Masof's Kitchen

A vibrant, tangy, and slightly spicy Ghanaian hibiscus beverage infused with orange, lemon, pineapple, lemongrass, star anise, ginger and sweetened with honey. Perfect for hot days or any time you want a refreshing, nutritious drink.

MediumGhanaianServes 8

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
1h 4m
Prep
50m
Cook
14m
Cleanup
2h 8m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$31.65
Total cost
$3.96
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Overnight infusion of hibiscus and aromatics
  • Boiling with ginger, cloves, chilies, and grains of paradise for 30 minutes
  • Blending and straining pineapple flesh into the hibiscus base
  • Second 20‑minute boil to meld flavors
  • Final fine filtration and sweetening

Safety Warnings

  • Hot liquid can cause severe burns; handle the pot with oven mitts.
  • When using a blender, ensure the lid is securely fastened to avoid splatter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of Sobolo in Ghanaian cuisine?

A

Sobolo, also known as hibiscus tea or bissap, is a traditional Ghanaian beverage enjoyed during celebrations, festivals, and everyday meals. It is prized for its bright red color, refreshing tartness, and believed health benefits, often served chilled at weddings and communal gatherings.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of Sobolo in West African cuisine?

A

In Ghana, Sobolo is commonly flavored with pineapple, ginger, and spices like cloves and star anise. In neighboring Nigeria, it may include mint or orange blossom water, while in Senegal it is often sweetened with sugar and served with a splash of lime. Each region adapts the base hibiscus with locally available fruits and spices.

cultural
Q

How is Sobolo traditionally served in Ghana?

A

Traditionally, Sobolo is served cold over ice in tall glasses or pitchers, sometimes garnished with a slice of orange or a sprig of mint. It is poured from a large communal jug at parties and is enjoyed as a non‑alcoholic refreshment alongside fried snacks or grilled meats.

cultural
Q

During which occasions is Sobolo typically prepared in Ghanaian culture?

A

Sobolo is a staple at weddings, naming ceremonies, funerals, and holiday celebrations such as Independence Day. Its vibrant color makes it a festive choice, and families often prepare large batches to share with guests.

cultural
Q

What authentic ingredients define a traditional Ghanaian Sobolo versus acceptable substitutes?

A

Authentic Sobolo uses dried hibiscus flowers, fresh pineapple, ginger, lemongrass, star anise, cloves, and grains of paradise. Substitutes like dried rose hips for hibiscus, canned pineapple for fresh, or maple syrup for honey can be used, but they slightly alter the traditional flavor profile.

cultural
Q

What other Ghanaian dishes pair well with Sobolo?

A

Sobolo pairs beautifully with Ghanaian street foods such as kelewele (spicy fried plantains), chichinga (grilled kebabs), and fried fish. Its acidity balances the richness of fried or grilled dishes, making it a popular accompaniment.

cultural
Q

What makes Sobolo special or unique in West African beverage tradition?

A

Sobolo stands out for its deep ruby hue, tart hibiscus flavor, and the layered complexity added by spices like star anise and grains of paradise. Unlike many sweet drinks, it combines fruit, spice, and a slight heat from ginger and chilies, offering a multi‑dimensional taste experience.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Sobolo at home?

A

Common errors include over‑boiling the hibiscus, which can make the drink overly bitter, and not straining enough, resulting in a cloudy texture. Also, forgetting to let the infusion chill before adding honey can cause the sweetener to crystallize.

technical
Q

Why does this Sobolo recipe use a second 20‑minute boil after adding pineapple puree?

A

The second boil helps integrate the pineapple’s natural sugars and acidity fully into the hibiscus base, ensuring a harmonious flavor and reducing any raw pineapple taste. It also aids in sterilizing the drink for longer storage.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Masof's Kitchen specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Masof's Kitchen focuses on African home cooking, especially Ghanaian and West African recipes. Masof shares step‑by‑step tutorials that highlight traditional ingredients, health‑focused twists, and practical tips for everyday cooks.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Masof's Kitchen's approach to Ghanaian cooking differ from other African cooking channels?

A

Masof's Kitchen emphasizes nutrition, clear visual instructions, and the use of locally sourced ingredients while still honoring authentic flavors. Unlike some channels that rely heavily on pre‑made spice mixes, Masof demonstrates how to build flavor from scratch with fresh aromatics and whole spices.

channel

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