
Classic Southern Iced Tea
Refreshing homemade iced tea with a perfect balance of sweetness and lemon.
5 mins
Prep Time
10 mins
Cook Time
4
Servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups water
- 4 black tea bags
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 lemon, sliced
- Ice cubes
- Fresh mint leaves (optional)
Nutrition Facts
80Calories
0gProtein
21gCarbs
0gFat
Instructions
1
Boil the water in a medium saucepan over high heat. Once boiling, remove from heat.
2
Add the tea bags to the hot water and let steep for 5 minutes for optimal flavor.
3
Remove the tea bags and stir in the sugar until completely dissolved.
4
Allow the tea to cool to room temperature, then transfer to a pitcher.
5
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour until thoroughly chilled.
6
Serve over ice cubes in tall glasses, garnished with lemon slices and fresh mint.
7
Stir before serving if the sugar has settled at the bottom.
Chef's Tips
- Tea Strength: For stronger tea, steep for an additional 2-3 minutes, but avoid over-steeping as it can make the tea bitter.
- Sweetness Control: Adjust sugar amount to taste, or substitute with honey or simple syrup.
- Citrus Twist: Try adding orange slices along with lemon for a citrusy variation.
- Herbal Option: Replace one tea bag with a herbal tea bag like peach or raspberry for a fruity flavor.
- Sun Tea Method: For a smoother taste, try making sun tea by steeping bags in cold water in sunlight for 3-4 hours.
- Storage: Keep refrigerated and consume within 2-3 days for best freshness.
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