A rose by any other name would keep us cool

In this sweltering summer heat, which seems set only to get worse with each passing year, we have to do our best simply to stay cool and some semblance of our normal selves. We know all the most commonly used tricks by those who have lived in hot climates, such as closing all the windows and curtains to stop the sunlight and hot air getting in, having cold showers, etc. And of course one of the most important things we can do is stay hydrated.

Staying hydrated is one thing, but it helps to have something pleasant and cool to drink. I am a firm advocate of iced tea, with or without lemon, and I would recommend Afternoon Blend from Fortnum & Mason as a mix that manages to hit all the right notes while staying eminently drinkable after resting a while in the fridge. But my absolute favourite iced tea is not really a tea at all in the strictest sense, but is made with a rosehip and hibiscus herbal infusion of the sort usually sold, quite reasonably, as herbal tea.

In winter, I drink it hot, when it turns a deep red and gives a wonderfully tart yet fruity taste that is both rich and somehow cleansing. When left to cool down in a large jug and then placed in the fridge for an hour or two, the sweet, refreshing side of the infusion comes to the fore and I have not yet found a better beverage for instantly lowering the internal body temperature.

While I like it with a little fresh lemon juice stirred in, my preference is to leave it as is and treat myself to a glass whenever life gets a little too hot to handle.

Makes about 1.5 litres

Ingredients

• 2 bags rosehip and hibiscus herbal tea, such as Heath & Heather
• 1.5 litres freshly boiled water
• Fresh lemon juice, to taste, optional

Method

Place the tea bags in a large heatproof glass jar or jug, ideally one with a lid. Pour over the just-boiled water and leave to infuse as it cools to room temperature.

Remove the tea bags, cover the jar or jug, and place in the fridge for at least an hour or two, until properly chilled. (Leave the bags in if you like a stronger infusion, or remove them before chilling for a cleaner, lighter drink.)

Serve cold, with ice if you like, and a little fresh lemon juice stirred in if the mood takes you.

Enjoy!

Approx. 0 calories per serving, before any optional additions.

Note: This keeps well in the fridge for a day or two, though it rarely lasts that long.