What Is Sweet Tea?
Sweet tea, or sugary tea, is a type of iced tea usually served in the southern United States. It is made by boiling tea leaves with sugar and then steeping it for a few hours before refrigerating it. Sweet tea is traditionally served with ice in a glass and garnished with slices of lemon or mint leaves. It is also sometimes served with a splash of lemon juice.
What Makes Sweet Tea Sweet?
Sweet tea gets its sweetness from the sugar that is added in during the brewing process. The amount of sugar used depends on individual taste, but is usually around 10-20 teaspoons of sugar for a gallon of tea. It is important to note that the sugar must be added before the tea is brewed in order for it to dissolve properly in the tea.
Health Benefits of Sweet Tea
Sweet tea is naturally low in calories and contains no fat or cholesterol, making it a much healthier option than the sugary drinks that are prevalent in today’s society. Because of its high antioxidant content, sweet tea has been linked to improved cardiovascular health and better immunity. Additionally, its caffeine content can give you a quick energy boost without causing the jitters or crash associated with caffeinated drinks.
Tips For Brewing Perfect Sweet Tea
- Choose the right tea: The type of tea used can determine how sweet the tea will taste. Black tea is the most common for sweet tea, but green tea and even flavored teas can be used.
- Use high quality sugar: Using high quality sugar, like demerara or turbinado, will help ensure the tea’s sweetness.
- Steep for the right amount of time: To get a perfect flavor, the tea should be steeped for at least 5 minutes, but no more than 10 minutes.
- Chill properly: Refrigerate the tea for 4-6 hours to ensure it is properly chilled and ready to be served.
Sweet tea’s supreme popularity and delicious sweetness is undeniable. Whether you’re looking for a healthy drink with an added boost of energy or just a way to cool off in the summertime, sweet tea is the perfect choice.
