🏠 Home > 🗺️ Recipes > 🍷 Drinks > 🇨🇬 Congo Drinks > 🍷 Tropical Mango Passion Juice (Jus de Mangue et Fruit de la Passion) , Hibiscus Iced Tea (Bissap Rouge) , Avocado Banana Smoothie (Jus d’Avocat et Banane)
🍷 Easy Homemade Congo Drinks Recipes : Congo Drinks (non-alcoholic)
Introduction
Congo is not only known for its vibrant culture and soulful food—it’s also home to some of Africa’s most refreshing, naturally flavored drinks. From tropical fruits bursting with sunshine to herbs and spices passed down through generations, Congolese drinks are a perfect mix of flavor, color, and culture.
Across the country, locals enjoy these drinks every day—on hot afternoons, family gatherings, or street corners where vendors sell colorful juices in tall glasses. They’re non-alcoholic, family-friendly, and deeply connected to the land. You’ll find flavors like mango, passion, and hibiscus dancing together to create the perfect refreshment.
In this post, we’re making it simple! Here are three of the most popular Congolese drink recipes that you can easily make at home, no special tools or exotic ingredients needed.
Each one takes less than 20–30 minutes to prepare, and they’re guaranteed to impress—whether you’re cooling off on a hot day or introducing African flavors to your friends.
Let’s explore the sweetness of Congo in a glass! 🍹
🔹 Recipe 1: Tropical Mango Passion Juice (Jus de Mangue et Fruit de la Passion)
About this Recipe
If sunshine could be bottled, it would taste like this! 🌞
Tropical Mango Passion Juice is one of Congo’s most loved homemade refreshments. Sweet, tangy, and incredibly vibrant, it blends ripe mangoes with the tart kick of passion fruit — a tropical flavor explosion that’s both nourishing and mood-lifting.
This drink is a favorite among families, often served at gatherings, picnics, or just as an everyday treat. It’s naturally non-alcoholic, full of vitamins A and C, and bursting with color and energy.
Ingredients & Measurements
- 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and chopped
- 2 passion fruits (or 3 tbsp passion fruit pulp)
- 3 cups (700 ml) cold water
- 2 tbsp honey or sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp fresh lime or lemon juice
- Ice cubes for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
1.Add the mango chunks, passion fruit pulp, and 1½ cups of water into a blender.
2.Blend until smooth, then strain through a fine sieve to remove fibers and seeds.
3.Stir in the remaining 1½ cups of water, honey (or sugar), and lime juice.
4.Chill in the fridge for 1–2 hours, or serve immediately over ice.
5.(Optional: For a silky texture, blend once more after chilling.)
Tips & Mistakes to Avoid
- Use fully ripe mangoes — underripe ones make the drink sour.
- Don’t skip the lime or lemon juice; it balances the sweetness perfectly.
- If you want a frothy texture, blend with a few ice cubes right before serving.
FAQ
Q1: Can I use bottled passion fruit juice instead?
A: Yes! Just reduce the water slightly and taste before adding sugar.
Q2: Can I make it ahead of time?
A: Absolutely. Store it chilled for up to 2 days — stir before serving.
Q3: What can I pair it with?
A: It’s great with grilled chicken, fried plantains, or spicy dishes — a perfect contrast!
Summary
A golden, tropical delight straight from the heart of Congo. Sweet mango meets tangy passion fruit for a flavor that’s bright, refreshing, and full of life — pure tropical joy in a glass! 🍹
🔹 Recipe 2: Hibiscus Iced Tea (Bissap Rouge)
About this Recipe
One of Africa’s most loved drinks, Bissap Rouge is made from dried hibiscus petals. In Congo, it’s often served during celebrations or on lazy afternoons when you need a cool, tangy drink to lift your mood.
It’s rich in antioxidants, naturally tart like cranberry juice, and beautifully deep red in color. The homemade version lets you control the sweetness—and when chilled, it’s incredibly refreshing.
Ingredients & Measurements
- 1 cup (20 g) dried hibiscus flowers
- 5 cups (1.2 L) water
- 3 tbsp sugar or honey (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp grated ginger (optional but traditional)
- ½ tsp vanilla extract (optional)
- A few mint leaves or slices of orange for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1.In a medium pot, bring the water to a boil (around 350°F / 175°C).
2.Add dried hibiscus flowers and ginger. Turn off the heat and let steep for 10–15 minutes.
3.Strain the liquid into a jug, add sugar or honey, and stir until dissolved.
4.Let cool, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving over ice.
5.Garnish with mint or orange slices for extra freshness.
Tips & Mistakes to Avoid
- Don’t over-steep the hibiscus—it can turn bitter. 10–15 minutes is ideal.
- For a deeper flavor, add a few cloves or cinnamon sticks during steeping.
- Chill thoroughly before serving; it tastes best when icy cold.
FAQ
Q1: Is hibiscus tea caffeinated?
A: No, it’s naturally caffeine-free, perfect for all ages.
Q2: Can I serve it hot?
A: Absolutely. It’s lovely as a warm tea in cooler weather.
Q3: Is it healthy?
A: Yes! Hibiscus tea is packed with vitamin C and antioxidants.
Summary
Vibrant, tart, and refreshing—this deep red hibiscus drink is both beautiful and energizing. A true taste of Africa that’s perfect for cooling down naturally.
🔹 Recipe 3: Avocado Banana Smoothie (Jus d’Avocat et Banane)
About this Recipe
Here’s a Congolese twist you probably didn’t expect—avocado in a sweet drink! In many parts of Africa, especially Congo, avocados are blended with bananas and milk to make a rich, creamy smoothie.
This drink is silky, slightly nutty, and naturally sweet without needing much sugar. It’s popular for breakfast or as a quick meal replacement because it’s full of healthy fats and potassium.
Ingredients & Measurements
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1 ripe banana
- 1 cup (240 ml) cold milk or plant-based milk
- 1 tbsp honey or sugar (optional)
- ½ tsp vanilla extract (optional)
- Ice cubes or crushed ice
Step-by-Step Instructions
1.Cut the avocado and banana into pieces.
2.Add all ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth and creamy.
3.Add ice cubes and blend again briefly for a frosty texture.
4.Taste and adjust sweetness if needed. Serve immediately.
Tips & Mistakes to Avoid
- Use fully ripe avocados—unripe ones can taste bitter.
- Don’t add too much milk; it should be thick and rich, not watery.
- If you want it extra smooth, blend for at least 45–60 seconds.
FAQ
Q1: Can I store it in the fridge?
A: It’s best fresh, but you can refrigerate for up to 6 hours in an airtight container.
Q2: Can I make it vegan?
A: Yes! Just use almond, oat, or coconut milk instead of dairy.
Q3: Can I add protein powder or seeds?
A: Definitely! Chia seeds or a scoop of protein powder work great for breakfast.
Summary
Thick, creamy, and packed with nutrients, this avocado-banana smoothie is a hidden gem of Congolese home cooking. It’s both delicious and energizing—comfort in a cup!
Final Thoughts
Congo’s drink culture is all about freshness, balance, and joy. Each sip tells a story of the land—ripe fruit, warm sunlight, and the rhythm of everyday life. And the best part? You can make these amazing drinks right in your kitchen, no fancy tools required.
Here’s what we covered:
1.Ginger Pineapple Juice – A tropical blast with a spicy kick.
2.Hibiscus Iced Tea – A cooling, ruby-red classic full of antioxidants.
3.Avocado Banana Smoothie – A creamy, nourishing favorite that’s surprisingly addictive.
Each one is easy, fast, and made with ingredients you can find anywhere.
So grab your blender, some ice, and a little curiosity—and start sipping the spirit of Congo! 🌿✨
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