Classic Homemade Iced Tea

Instructions

1. 1

   Bring 4 cups of Water to a boil in a Saucepan or Kettle. Remove from heat and let it rest for 1 minute — this brings the temperature down slightly (to around 200°F) and prevents the Tea from becoming bitter.

2. 2

   Add 4 Black Tea Bags to the hot Water. Steep for exactly 5 minutes. Do not squeeze or press the bags when removing them — this releases bitter tannins. Simply lift them out and discard.

3. 3

   Pour the hot brewed Tea concentrate into a large Pitcher (Large). Add 4 cups of Cold Water and stir to combine. This dilutes the concentrate to the perfect drinking strength.

4. 4

   Allow the Tea to cool to room temperature (about 30–45 minutes), then refrigerate until fully chilled, at least 1 hour. Do not pour hot Tea directly over Ice — it will dilute and cloud the Tea.

5. 5

   While the Tea brews, make the simple syrup (optional): Combine 3/4 cup Sugar and 3/4 cup Water in a small Saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the Sugar fully dissolves, about 2–3 minutes. Do not boil. Remove from heat and let cool completely. Transfer to a Quart Jar or bottle.

6. 6

   Fill tall glasses generously with Ice. Pour the chilled Tea over the Ice, leaving a little room at the top. Sweeten with simple syrup to taste — start with 1–2 tablespoons per glass and adjust from there.

7. 7

   Garnish each glass with a Lemon wedge or round and a sprig of fresh Mint if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!