If you want to learn how to make Zobo drink without sugar, this article will teach you all you need to know.

Zobo drink, also known as Hibiscus tea or Roselle juice, is a well-known locally-made drink enjoyed by many Nigerians both at home and abroad. Traditionally, it is prepared with dried hibiscus, roselle or sorrel leaves (hibiscus sabdariffa), natural spices and sweetener. It offers a refreshing and calming effect to the body.

Key Points

Zobo drink is a popular non-alcoholic beverage otherwise known as local red wine in Nigeria.
Most people who make it for commercial purposes usually add sugar as a major ingredient.
Zobo drink without sugar is an alternative which uses natural sweeteners in place of refined sugar, and this is healthier for everyone looking to keep their sugar levels at bay.
In spite of the numerous health benefits of Zobo drink, pregnant women in their first trimester, and those suffering from flower allergies are advised to avoid it.
Always speak with an expert doctor if you have health concerns about the Zobo drink.

What is a Zobo drink?

Zobo drink is a non-alcoholic sweetened beverage that is best served chilled because of its calming effect on the body. The popularity of Zobo drinks goes beyond Nigeria. It is consumed by many Africans, Caribbeans, Mexicans and some Asians.

Zobo drinks contain carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins A and C, and minerals (magnesium, sodium, calcium, potassium and iron), Although Zobo possesses many health benefits, pregnant women in their first trimester are discouraged from taking it as it may result in a miscarriage.

Can I drink Zobo without sugar?

Yes. Zobo drink can be enjoyed alone or with an infusion of natural ingredients from your garden and kitchen. For those watching their sugar intake, especially diabetics or weight watchers, there is good news: Zobo drink can be made as delicious and healthy without any added sugar.

Health benefits of Zobo drink without sugar

Some of the health benefits of Zobo drink include:

It keeps you hydrated during hot weather and sunny days.
It contains low calories which helps with weight loss.
It helps to lower the blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
It is rich in antioxidants which may help protect cells from damage and chronic diseases like heart disease, cancer and stroke.
It may help regulate blood sugar levels, especially in diabetic and PCOS patients.

What can I use instead of sugar in Zobo drink?

Refined or processed sugar is usually what makes most Zobo drinks tasty and sweet. So, what can one use instead of sugar to make Zobo drink still taste great?

There are so many options when it comes to sugar substitutes for Zobo drinks. You can choose from natural sweeteners like honey and dates to fruits and spices.

1. Honey

Honey is a natural sweetener with a unique taste and flavour that can replace processed sugar when added to the Zobo drink. Add a moderate amount of honey to get the desired sweetness needed.

While some researchers assert that honey is equally high in carbs and can raise blood sugar, recent studies show that honey has a slightly lower glycemic index as compared to sugar. This means that honey doesn’t affect your blood-sugar levels as much. Plus, it also contains more vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, such as calcium, potassium, vitamin C, zinc, and phenolic acids.

2. Dates

Dates are sweet fruits that contain fructose, fibre and various vitamins and minerals. They are more nutritious than refined sugars because they are packed with so many nutrients and antioxidants.

Dates can be added to Zobo drinks either grounded or freshly blended. Dates are also found to be a low glycemic index fruit which means it does not raise the blood sugar level like sugar.

Dates also help lower blood sugar levels in diabetic patients.

3. Fruits

There are so many naturally sweetened fruits that can replace sugar when added to Zobo drinks. Adding the right quantity of these fruits to your Zobo drink will make it as sweet as it should be with sugar.

The fruits that can act as sugar substitutes for your Zobo drink are pineapple chunks and peels, oranges, apples, cherries, berries, etc. The pineapple peels can be boiled along with the hibiscus leaves.

The natural sugar from these fruits infuse the drink with a delightful sweetness and flavour. You can always adjust the quantity based on your preference and the fruit’s inborn sweetness.

4. Natural Spices

The use of natural spices in Zobo production would go a long way towards enriching both the Zobo drink and adding more nutrients and aroma to it. Some of the natural spices to add include:

• Ginger & Garlic: A small amount of freshly grated ginger and garlic adds a spicy taste to your Zobo. It complements the sourness of hibiscus leaves and offers health benefits like aiding digestion, weight loss, blood sugar control, etc.

• Cloves & Cinnamon: These aromatic spices add a slightly sweet flavour to your drink. A few cloves and a cinnamon stick are enough to make a Zobo drink for a family.

• Lemongrass: A stalk of lemongrass adds a lemon flavour to your Zobo drink.

Feel free to experiment with different fruits, spices, and combinations to discover your perfect sugar-free Zobo recipe. Add the spices with caution as they have a strong and overpowering aroma and may ruin the taste of the Zobo drink if added excessively.

How to make healthy Zobo drink without sugar?

A healthy Zobo drink devoid of sugar is achievable with a few ingredients that would cost you very little to purchase from the market.

Here is a list of the major ingredients you need:

Dry hibiscus or roselle leaves (Zobo leaves)
Dates or honey
1 small sized pineapple
Fruit of choice( apple, orange, tangerine, grape, berries) to garnish
1 medium-sized Ginger
Garlic, cloves, cinnamon etc. (optional)

10 easy steps to make a healthy Zobo drink without sugar

Wash the Zobo leaves and pour into a pot of water to boil. Add enough water so it can produce enough juice. Alternatively, you can soak the leaves in water overnight.
Allow to cook on medium heat for 15-20 minutes.
Add blended ginger, garlic, cloves, cinnamon and pineapple peels to boil with the Zobo leaves for another 20 minutes.
Put off the fire, bring it down and allow it to cool.
Cut your pineapple, dates and any fruit of choice and blend.
Check the Zobo drink and sieve if it has properly cooled.
Add your blended pineapple juice and dates and sieve again if you desire a smooth drink.
Add the honey, stir, taste and adjust any desired ingredient to preference.
Pour into a cup and serve with ice and preferred fruit slices like oranges, apples, berries etc.
Pour into choice containers and store in your refrigerator.

Conclusion

Zobo drink is a popular Nigerian non-alcoholic drink that is best served chilled because it helps calm the nerves and reduces stress. The drink is made from dried hibiscus leaves. It is boiled and sieved to extract the juice. Natural/artificial sweeteners are added to make it tastier.

One of the easiest drinks to make, Zobo leaves are readily available and affordable in the market.

Zobo drinks can be prepared to meet individual needs, especially for health-conscious persons or people with health conditions that require monitoring their blood sugar levels. Zobo drink without sugar can be made with other substitutes like honey, dates, fruits, cinnamon and ginger. The combination of these ingredients is more healthy and nutritious.

The health benefits of Zobo drink without sugar include weight loss, blood pressure regulation, reduced blood sugar levels, aids digestion and bowel movements and helps with stress management.

The secret to making Zobo drink without sugar is to let the flavours of nature dominate. You can enjoy this refreshing drink with the help of some fruits, a dash of spice, and perhaps a tablespoon of natural sweetener at the end. If you ever need a refreshing and healthy home-made drink, make some Zobo drink without sugar instead.

How Telemedicine can help

Telemedicine offers the option of speaking with medical professionals online. The convenience and accessibility it offers makes it your best option in today’s world where it is not easy to book a doctor’s appointment anymore. Telemedicine makes it easier and faster to consult a doctor from the comfort of your home. With your smartphone, you can speak or chat with a doctor in a matter of minutes.

You can talk to a specialist about your general health concerns, your prescriptions or health counseling etc.

If you have any concerns or questions about taking Zobo drink without sugar, or wondering if this drink is suitable for your health, do not hesitate to talk to expert doctors on KompleteCare who are available 24/7 to attend to you.

Frequently Asked Questions about Zobo drink

1. How long can Zobo drink last without refrigeration?

Zobo drink may last about 24 hours without refrigeration before microorganisms start acting on it. This microorganisms will make it bad and dangerous to consume after 24 hours. It is advised to finish or refrigerate any remnant after consumption.

2. Does Zobo drink burn belly fat?

Yes, Zobo drink without sugar contain low calories which helps with weight management. A recent study also suggests that it can help burn belly fat.

3. Can I drink Zobo drink every day?

You can take Zobo drink everyday provided you don’t experience any side effects or discomfort. But it is safer to consume things in moderation as too much of everything is bad. You should also discontinue and speak with a doctor once you notice any discomfort from taking Zobo.

4. Is Zobo drink safe for pregnant women?

Pregnant women need to confirm with a doctor before taking Zobo because according to recent research (with animal models), Zobo drink can cause miscarriages, low birth weight and premature birth.