Bissap
Bissap is a vibrant, ruby-red beverage made from steeped dried hibiscus calyces, often sweetened with sugar and flavored with mint or ginger. It is a beloved and refreshing staple across West Africa, particularly in Senegal, Mali, and Nigeria, where it's enjoyed both as a daily drink and for special occasions.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
As typically served, Bissap is a low-protein, low-fat drink whose calories come almost entirely from added sugar (carbohydrates). It is a notable source of vitamin C and powerful antioxidants like anthocyanins, with a rough calorie count of 100-150 per 8-ounce serving, depending on sweetness.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 45 kcal |
| Protein | 0.5 g |
| Carbs | 11 g |
| Fat | 0.1 g |
| Fiber | 0.5 g |
| Sugar | 9 g |
| Sodium | 10 mg |
| Vitamin C | 15 mg |
| Potassium | 350 mg |
| Magnesium | 15 mg |
| Iron | 1.5 mg |
| Calcium | 25 mg |
| Phosphorus | 20 mg |
| Zinc | 0.3 mg |
| Niacin (B3) | 0.5 mg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Beyond its refreshing taste, Bissap is culturally significant as a symbol of hospitality and is often the first drink offered to guests. Nutritionally, the deep red color comes from anthocyanins, which are potent antioxidants studied for their potential health benefits.
AI estimate may be inaccurate · Terms