The Sorrel Legacy
It's 11 AM on a Tuesday, I'm in my kitchen, donning a black linen button-up with rolled-up sleeves, wide blue-leg denim, and stylish green Gardenheir shoes. Wearing black latex gloves and a denim blue apron emblazoned with "All Natural" across the chest. I'm all set to dive into making our new Sorrel & Cerasee soap. I must admit, I'm giving off some seriously hot-nerdy-mom vibes today.
Sorrel holds a special place in my heart, a beverage steeped in tradition that my family has enjoyed during holidays for as long as I can remember. Its roots trace back to West Africa and journeyed to the US during the transatlantic slave trade. For me, food represents more than sustenance—it's a powerful way for the African diaspora to reconnect with shared heritage and heal from generational traumas. Food truly is medicine in so many ways.
Receiving a glass of Sorrel is like receiving a piece of someone's heart. It's an unspoken understanding among us that only a select few can truly master the art of making "good" sorrel. With its vibrant wine color, infused with the deep notes of clove, spicy ginger, and sweetened with brown sugar, it's a delightful concoction that can transport you with just one sip. And for those feeling a bit daring, a splash of Jamaican white rum takes it up a notch. Personally, I savor my sorrel cold in a wine glass, all by myself, post-meal, with ice—oh, the little luxuries in life!
Today is a special day as we're turning our beloved Sorrel into soap (surprise! Who saw that coming?). I am thrilled to soon share my personal Sorrel drink recipe with you in our online journal.
The process begins with simmering hibiscus flowers in water for an hour, allowing it to steep overnight. In the morning, a rich, deep wine-colored syrup is left behind. Straining and composting the flowers reveal a treasure trove of antioxidants like anthocyanin and protocatechuic acid, serving as natural skin brighteners and supporters of collagen health.
Sorrel holds benefits not just for sipping, but also for your health. Opting for natural sweeteners like honey or agave can enhance its goodness. Packed with flavonoids, antioxidants, Vitamin A, B vitamins, and more, Sorrel is a true elixir, but like all good things, moderation is key.
Our brand has been thriving as we connect with your needs and aspirations. Food plays a crucial role in our journey, inspiring us to lightly scent our Sorrel soap for all to enjoy, even those with sensitive skin. This passion project is a labor of love, and I want each and every one of you to revel in its magic.
With only 300 cubes available for this season, this launch is truly limited and special. Join us on this enchanting journey of self-care and indulgence with our Sorrel soap.
With love and as always with purpose.
x Kimberly
Exdita Nayeli Pineda Picado
Espéro sea verdad
Jessica
I can smell the sorrel simmering from my screen 🤤