Ep 6. Hisbiscus Flowers or Jamaica

Pati's Mexican Table season 1 episode 6 is titled "Hibiscus Flowers or Jamaica." The episode starts with Pati explaining how hibiscus flowers, also known as Jamaica, are a staple in Mexican cuisine. She discusses how the flowers are used in everything from refreshing drinks to savory dishes.

Pati then heads to a local Mexican market to purchase some fresh hibiscus flowers. She explains that the flowers can also be found dried and packaged, but she prefers using fresh ones for a stronger flavor.

Back in her kitchen, Pati demonstrates how to make a popular Mexican drink called Agua de Jamaica, which is essentially a sweet and tangy hibiscus iced tea. She boils the hibiscus flowers in water with cinnamon sticks, sugar, and oranges, creating a deep red color and a fragrant aroma. She strains the mixture into a pitcher with ice and cold water and serves the drink with a slice of lime.

Next, Pati uses the leftover hibiscus flowers to make a savory dish called Hibiscus Tacos. She sautés the flowers with onions, garlic, and diced tomatoes, creating a filling with a slightly sweet and tangy flavor. She assembles soft corn tortillas with the hibiscus filling and tops them with crumbled queso fresco, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice.

Throughout the episode, Pati also shares the health benefits of hibiscus flowers, which are known to be rich in antioxidants and may help lower blood pressure and cholesterol.

To finish off the episode, Pati makes a dessert using hibiscus flowers. She prepares a Hibiscus and Raspberry Sorbet, combining pureed hibiscus flowers with fresh raspberries, sugar, and lemon juice. She churns the mixture in an ice cream maker until it becomes a smooth and vibrant sorbet. She serves it in small bowls garnished with mint leaves.

Overall, "Hibiscus Flowers or Jamaica" is a colorful and flavorful episode, showcasing the versatility of hibiscus flowers in Mexican cuisine. Pati's passion for Mexican food and her ability to seamlessly blend traditional and modern techniques make this episode a must-watch for anyone interested in Mexican cooking.