Bissap juice is one of the most beloved beverages across West Africa. Made from dried hibiscus flowers, this vibrant ruby-red drink is enjoyed in countries such as Senegal, Guinea, Mali, Côte d’Ivoire, Burkina Faso, and beyond. Every family has its own special recipe, often flavored with fresh mint, pineapple, passion fruit, or warm spices.

Known for its refreshing tart flavor and beautiful deep-red color, bissap is naturally rich in antioxidants and vitamin C. It is commonly served chilled during family gatherings, celebrations, Ramadan, and everyday meals.

This recipe combines dried hibiscus flowers with pineapple peel, passion fruit, fresh mint, cloves, and anise for a flavorful homemade drink with the perfect balance of sweetness and freshness.

Ingredients

• 235 g dried hibiscus flowers
• Peel from 1 whole pineapple (well washed)
• 4 passion fruits
• 2 bunches fresh mint
• 1 tablespoon whole cloves
• 1 teaspoon anise seeds
• 5 liters water, divided
• 1.5 kg brown sugar (adjust to taste)
• 2 packets vanilla sugar
• 2 ripe sweet bananas

Instructions

1. In a large pot, combine 2 liters of water, the dried hibiscus flowers, pineapple peel, pulp from the passion fruits, one bunch of fresh mint, cloves, and anise seeds.
2. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 15 minutes.
3. Remove from the heat. Add the remaining bunch of fresh mint and allow the mixture to steep until completely cooled.
4. Strain the juice through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth, gently pressing the hibiscus flowers and fruit to extract as much flavor as possible.
5. Add the remaining 3 liters of water.
6. Blend the ripe bananas until smooth and stir them into the juice.
7. Add the brown sugar and vanilla sugar, stirring until completely dissolved.
8. Strain the juice a second time for a smooth, silky texture.
9. Refrigerate until well chilled before serving.

Tips

Wash the pineapple thoroughly before using the peel.
Adjust the sugar to your preferred sweetness.
Serve over ice with fresh mint leaves for an extra refreshing touch.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Yield: Approximately 5.5 liters (22–24 servings)