Ingredients
Tea
- 6 tea bags (use standard size; adjust for iced tea blends accordingly)
- 7 cups water
Sweetener
- Simple syrup, to taste (see notes for easy homemade simple syrup instructions)
To Serve
- Ice
- Fresh mint leaves (optional)
- Lemon slices (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Jar: Fill a clear sun tea jar or a half-gallon mason jar with 7 cups of water, ensuring it is clean and suitable for sun exposure.
- Add Tea Bags: Submerge 6 tea bags into the water. Close the jar lid securely, and position the tags outside the jar to keep the tea bags in place during steeping.
- Steep in Sunlight: Place the jar in a very sunny, warm spot outdoors. Allow the tea to steep for at least one hour, ideally closer to three hours. The sunshine gently infuses flavor, with darker, richer color indicating readiness.
- Remove Tea Bags: Once steeped to your preference, remove and discard the tea bags carefully to avoid over-brewing.
- Sweeten: Add simple syrup to the brewed tea to achieve your desired sweetness level. Stir well to combine.
- Serve: Pour the sun tea over ice cubes to chill it immediately. Optionally, garnish with fresh mint leaves and lemon slices for added aroma and flavor.
Notes
- For a stronger tea flavor, use more tea bags or extend the steeping time, making sure not to over-steep to avoid bitterness.
- Simple syrup can be made by dissolving equal parts sugar and water over low heat until clear; cool before adding.
- Use only quality, food-safe glass jars that can withstand outdoor sunlight and temperature changes.
- Adjust sweetness or garnish according to personal preference for a customized iced tea experience.
- Ensure the water is clean and safe to drink, as it is not boiled during preparation.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Beverage
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American