Sobolo

Sobolo

Sobolo (soh-BOH-loh)

Hibiscus Drink

Prep Time 30 min + chilling
📈 Difficulty Easy
👥 Servings
8

A refreshing, tangy-sweet deep crimson drink brewed from dried hibiscus petals with ginger, cloves, and pineapple — Ghana's favourite chilled beverage.

Nutrition & Info

85 kcal per serving
Carbs 21.0g

Dietary

vegetarian vegan dairy-free gluten-free nut-free

Equipment Needed

large pot sieve pitcher bottles

Presentation Guide

Vessel: glass or plastic bag

Garnishes: pineapple slice, mint

Accompaniments: chin chin, meat pie

Instructions

  1. 1

    Rinse hibiscus petals. Place in pot with ginger, cloves, cinnamon, and water.

  2. 2

    Bring to a boil and simmer 20 minutes until deep red.

  3. 3

    Strain through fine sieve into pitcher. Press to extract all liquid.

  4. 4

    Blend pineapple, strain juice into the sobolo. Add sugar to taste.

  5. 5

    Chill thoroughly and serve over ice.

💡

Did You Know?

Sobolo vendors at Ghanaian roadsides serve it in small plastic bags — you bite a corner off and drink, a skill every Ghanaian masters in childhood.

Chef's Notes

Equipment Tips

  • large pot
  • sieve
  • pitcher
  • bottles

Garnishing

pineapple slice, mint

Accompaniments

chin chin, meat pie

The Story Behind Sobolo

Sobolo, also known as bissap across West Africa, is brewed from the abundant hibiscus plant. In Ghana, it became a commercial success with roadside vendors and small-scale producers, evolving from a home drink to a widespread entrepreneurial product.

🕐 Traditionally enjoyed any occasion, especially hot weather and parties 📜 Origins: Traditional Ghanaian beverage

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