Teresa's Recipes
Southern Sweet Tea
Sweet tea is a beloved Southern staple, often enjoyed on warm days and at family gatherings. This refreshing beverage combines the robust flavor of black tea with the perfect balance of sweetness and hints of fresh mint and citrus. Traditionally served over ice, sweet tea is not just a drink; it's a symbol of Southern hospitality and charm, often accompanied by laughter and good conversation.
Ingredients
- 8 cups Water
- 4 Black tea bags
- 1 cup, adjust to taste Sugar
- 1/4 cup, plus extra for garnish Fresh mint leaves
- 1 lemon, sliced Lemon slices
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 8
- Dish Type: Beverage
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Calories: 100
- Fat: 0g
- Carbs: 25g
- Protein: 0g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Sugar: 24g
Instructions
- In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, remove the pot from heat and add the black tea bags. Allow them to steep for about 5 minutes, depending on your desired strength.
- Carefully remove the tea bags and stir in the sugar until it is completely dissolved.
- Add the remaining 4 cups of cold water to the tea mixture, and stir until well blended.
- Add the fresh mint leaves to the tea, allowing them to infuse their flavor. If desired, you can muddle the mint slightly to release more oils.
- Chill the sweet tea in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
- When ready to serve, pour the sweet tea over ice in tall glasses. Garnish each glass with a slice of lemon and a sprig of fresh mint.
Tips
- For a minty twist, muddle some mint leaves at the bottom of your glass before pouring in the sweet tea.
- Experiment with flavored teas, such as peach or raspberry, for a fruity variation.
- For a richer flavor, consider using a combination of black tea and herbal tea.