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+ servings
Linda Cain

Best Iced Tea Recipe

Imagine a hot summer afternoon where the sun is blazing, and you're seeking something to cool you down. What could be better than a glass of refreshing iced tea? Before we dive into the delicious details of the best iced tea recipe, let's first discuss what pairs beautifully with this delightful beverage.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: American
Calories: 42

Ingredients
  

  • 1 small cinnamon stick
  • 6 sachets of robust black tea such as Assam or Darjeeling
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1/3 cup raw cane sugar
  • 8 cups filtered water separated

Equipment

  • Pitcher

Method
 

Step 1: Boil the Water
  1. Begin by boiling 4 cups of filtered water in a pot. It's essential to use good quality water since it influences the taste.
Step 2: Brew the Tea
  1. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, add the 6 tea sachets and the small cinnamon stick. Allow it to steep for about 5 minutes. For a bolder tea taste, steep it a bit longer, but keep an eye on it to avoid bitterness.
Step 3: Add Sugar
  1. After the tea has brewed to your satisfaction, remove the sachets and the cinnamon stick. Stir in the raw cane sugar while the tea is still warm. This will ensure that the sugar dissolves completely.
Step 4: Add Lemon Juice
  1. Once sugar is fully dissolved, stir in the fresh lemon juice. This will add a refreshing note that elevates the flavor profile of your iced tea.
Step 5: Cool and Dilute
  1. Now, pour the mixture into a pitcher. Add the remaining 4 cups of cold filtered water to dilute the concentrated tea mixture.
Step 6: Refrigerate
  1. Put the pitcher in the refrigerator. Allow the tea to chill for at least 1–2 hours. The longer it sits, the more the flavors will develop.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
  1. To serve, fill a glass with ice, pour the chilled tea over it, and garnish with fresh lemon slices, mint leaves, or any other garnishes you enjoy. Now, sit back, relax, and enjoy your refreshing creation.

Nutrition

Calories: 42kcalCarbohydrates: 11gSodium: 7mgSugar: 11gCalcium: 3mg

Notes

- Choose Quality Tea: Always select high-quality tea for a richer flavor. Look for loose leaf options or reputable brands.
- Experiment with Sweetness: Adjust the sugar to your preference, or try honey or agave syrup for a unique sweetness.
- Infuse with Other Flavors: Consider adding sliced fruits like peaches, strawberries, or herbs such as mint and basil for an extra twist.
- Use Cold Brew Method: If you prefer a smoother flavor, try cold brewing your tea. Just add the tea to cold water and let it steep in the fridge overnight.
- Serve Fresh: Iced tea tastes best when consumed fresh. If it sits too long, it might lose its vibrancy.

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