Hibiscus Thai Basil Lemonade 🌺

Ingredients (4 servings):
4 cups water, divided
¼ cup dried hibiscus petals (or 3 hibiscus tea bags)
½ cup fresh lemon juice (about 3–4 lemons)
¼ cup honey or sugar (adjust to taste)
6–8 fresh Thai basil leaves
Ice, for serving
Lemon slices & extra basil sprigs, for garnish

Instructions:
Brew hibiscus tea:
Boil 2 cups of water. Add hibiscus petals (or tea bags), steep 10 minutes until deep red. Strain and discard petals. Let cool.

Make basil syrup (optional for stronger flavor):
In a small pot, combine ½ cup sugar + ½ cup water. Add Thai basil leaves, simmer 2–3 minutes. Remove from heat, let steep 10 minutes, then strain.

Mix lemonade:
In a pitcher, combine hibiscus tea, 2 cups cold water, lemon juice, and sweetener (basil syrup or honey).
Stir well and taste—add more sugar/honey if needed.

Serve:
Fill glasses with ice. Pour over lemonade. Garnish with lemon slices and Thai basil sprigs.

Flavor Notes:
Hibiscus gives a tart, cranberry-like flavor.
Thai basil adds a subtle anise/licorice note that balances the citrus.
You can make it sparkling by swapping some water for club soda.