How to Make a Pitcher of Iced Tea
Iced tea is a classic summer beverage that can be enjoyed at barbecues, outdoor gatherings, or just while lounging in the sun. Making a pitcher of iced tea is an easy activity and you can create a customized iced tea just the way you like it. Here’s a simple guide to making a delicious pitcher of iced tea:
Ingredients
- 3-4 family-sized tea bags (or 6-8 individual teabags)
- 4 quarts of cold filtered water
- ¾ cup of granulated sugar (or more or less, depending on desired sweetness)
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice (or to taste)
- Optional: fresh fruit and/or herbs to flavor your iced tea (suggestions below)
Instructions
- Bring 2 quarts of cold water to a boil in a saucepan.
- Turn off the heat and steep the tea bags for 4-5 minutes.
- After the tea has finished steeping, remove the tea bags and stir in the sugar until it is dissolved.
- Pour the tea into a large pitcher (2-3 quarts) and stir in the remaining 2 quarts of cold water.
- Add the freshly squeezed lemon juice and stir.
- Gently stir in optional fruit and/or herbs and chill in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours.
- Serve over ice, garnish with lemon, and enjoy!
Flavor Boosters
For a flavorful twist, you can add any combination of fresh fruit and/or herbs to your iced tea. Here are a few suggestions to get you started:
- Fruit: strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, lemons, limes, oranges, peaches, or tangerines.
- Herbs: mint, basil, rosemary, or thyme.
Making a pitcher of iced tea is a refreshing summer activity that you and your friends or family can enjoy. With this easy guide, you can create a customized iced tea just the way you like it. So grab some tea bags, boil some water, and get brewing!
