Island Brew

Sorrel, also known as  Hibiscus, Roselle or Bissap, is a stunning magenta flower that blooms in December right here in Saint Lucia. I understand that there are some 232 different species, so I'm not sure which one I have here.

Each robust flower is an unique entity: succulent corolla curling out over a spiked calyx. Weighty and curvaceous, the blooms may be as long as 3-4 inches and a single flower fills your palm. Local lore attributes miraculous healing powers to this hefty blossom. Curative benefits are claimed from anti-cancer properties to weight loss.



After harvesting lemon grass from the beach and investing in  local curls of cinnamon bark and thumbs of ginger root, I'm now ready to brew the famous island treat: Christmas Punch.   I understand from my students that their families prepared liter after liter over the holiday week.  There is never enough!  Kids love this holiday treat over ice with sugar syrup and cloves.  Adults enjoy it with a lemon wedge and plenty of Bounty rum, of course.