Southern Sweet Tea Recipe
Southern Sweet Tea Recipe
Ingredients
- 4-6 black tea bags (such as Lipton or Tetley)
- 4 cups water (for brewing)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 4 cups cold water (for dilution)
- Ice
- Optional garnish: lemon slices or fresh mint
Instructions
- Boil the Water: In a saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a rolling boil.
- Brew the Tea: Once the water is boiling, remove it from heat and add the black tea bags. Allow the tea to steep for about 10-15 minutes, depending on how strong you want the flavor.
- Sweeten the Tea: After steeping, remove the tea bags and stir in the granulated sugar while the tea is still warm. Mix until the sugar is fully dissolved.
- Dilute the Tea: Add 4 cups of cold water to the sweetened tea. This helps cool it down and balances the flavor.
- Chill: Refrigerate the tea for at least 1-2 hours to chill before serving.
- Serve: Serve over ice in tall glasses. Garnish with lemon slices or fresh mint if desired.
Importance of Each Ingredient
- Black Tea Bags: The base of the tea, providing a robust flavor. Traditional Southern sweet tea uses strong black tea for its rich taste.
- Water: Essential for brewing the tea and for diluting it to achieve the desired strength and sweetness.
- Granulated Sugar: The key ingredient that defines Southern sweet tea, giving it the characteristic sweetness. Adjusting the amount allows for customization to individual taste preferences.
- Ice: Crucial for serving the tea cold, making it a refreshing drink, especially in warm weather.
- Lemon & Mint (Optional): Enhance the flavor profile and add a refreshing touch, making the tea visually appealing as well.
Enjoy your homemade Southern sweet tea—it’s the perfect complement to any meal or gathering!
