Description
This refreshing iced black tea is a perfect drink for hot days, combining sweetness and robust flavor. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a customizable homemade iced tea thats ideal for any occasion. Enjoy it plain or with fresh lemon and mint for an extra touch!
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups of water
- 4 black tea bags (or 4 teaspoons of loose black tea)
- 1/4 cup of sugar (adjust to taste)
- Ice cubes
- Fresh lemon slices (optional)
- Fresh mint leaves (optional)
Instructions
- Boil the Water: Bring 4 cups of water to a rolling boil in a medium-sized pot or kettle.
- Add the Tea: Remove the boiling water from heat and add the 4 black tea bags or loose black tea (using a tea infuser if necessary).
- Steep the Tea: Allow the tea to steep for 5-7 minutes, adjusting the time based on your flavor preference.
- Sweeten the Tea: Remove the tea bags or strain out the loose tea. While warm, stir in 1/4 cup of sugar, adjusting to taste.
- Cool the Tea: Let the sweetened tea cool to room temperature (about 15-20 minutes) or refrigerate to speed up the process.
- Refrigerate: Transfer the cooled tea to a pitcher and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours.
- Prepare Ice Cubes: While the tea chills, prepare ice cubes. Consider using larger cubes or tea-infused ice cubes to prevent dilution.
- Fill Glasses with Ice: When ready to serve, fill glasses halfway with ice cubes.
- Pour the Tea: Pour the chilled black tea over the ice, watching it turn a beautiful amber color.
- Garnish (Optional): Add a slice of fresh lemon and a few mint leaves for added flavor and presentation.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the tea and adjust sweetness if necessary.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately and enjoy your refreshing iced black tea.
Notes
- Flavored Iced Tea: Experiment with adding fruits like peaches or berries during the chilling process for a fruity twist.
- Herbal Infusions: Consider adding herbs like basil or rosemary for a unique flavor.
- Sweetener Alternatives: Substitute sugar with honey or agave syrup for a healthier option.
- Storage: Store leftover iced tea in the refrigerator for 3-5 days, noting that flavors may change over time.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes