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Brilliant crimson hibiscus flower tea, served ice-cold and sweetened with a clean simple syrup — the Ramadan drink of the Levant and Egypt, drunk to break the fast at iftar and throughout the hot summer months.
⏱ 15 min🍽 6 servings📍 Lebanese coast
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The story
Karakade — dried hibiscus flowers (karkadeh, Hibiscus sabdariffa) steeped in hot water to produce a vivid, tart scarlet drink — travels freely across North Africa, the Levant, and the Arabian Peninsula. In Lebanon and Syria it arrived via Egyptian and Sudanese merchants trading along the coast. By the 20th century it had taken root as a Ramadan drink: its tartness cuts through the sweetness of dates and pastes at iftar; its deep red color makes it celebratory on the table. In Tripoli and Sidon, karakade vendors sell it from large brass urns in the souqs throughout Ramadan, poured over crushed ice into plastic cups. Traditionally prized across the region for its cooling, thirst-quenching character — a practical virtue that made it the drink of the summer fast for centuries. The Lebanese version skips the spices used in Egyptian karkadeh and serves it unadorned: pure, cold, and as red as a glass of pomegranate juice.
Frequently asked questions
What is Karakade?
Brilliant crimson hibiscus flower tea, served ice-cold and sweetened with a clean simple syrup — the Ramadan drink of the Levant and Egypt, drunk to break the fast at iftar and throughout the hot summer months.
Where is Karakade from?
Karakade comes from Lebanese coast. Sofra documents this recipe as part of its 214-recipe Lebanese and Syrian heritage collection, including 49 dishes from Idlib province.
Is Karakade vegetarian or vegan?
As written, Karakade uses only plant-based ingredients, so it is suitable for both vegetarian and vegan diets. Always double-check the full ingredient list against your own dietary needs.
What can I use instead of fresh lemon juice in Karakade?
The fresh lemon juice called for here is part of the traditional recipe and gives Karakade its traditional character, so keep it if you can. If you must substitute, choose the closest equivalent you have on hand and adjust to taste — the dish will shift slightly from the traditional version but still work. The Sofra app lists the full ingredient set and sourcing notes.
What do I serve with Karakade?
In a Levantine drinks spread, Karakade is served as a refreshment on its own, warm or chilled as the recipe directs.
Can I make Karakade ahead, and how do I store leftovers?
This can be made ahead and kept covered in the refrigerator. Stir or shake before serving, and adjust sweetness or dilution to taste.
Hear every step read aloud
Step-by-step audio narration (text-to-speech) guides you hands-free. Charbel Rouhana's original oud plays during Cooking Mode.
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