Description
A refreshing and sweet lemon iced tea recipe that combines brewed black tea with fresh lemon juice and sugar, chilled to perfection. This classic beverage is perfect for a hot day and easy to prepare in just 10 minutes.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups Water
- ¾ - 1 cup granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- 10 tea bags black tea
- The juice of 6 fresh lemons
- 4 lemons (sliced, for garnish)
Instructions
- Boil Water: Bring 4 cups of water to a rolling boil on the stovetop.
- Mix Sugar and Baking Soda: In a large, heat-proof pitcher or jug, combine the boiling water, baking soda, and granulated sugar. Stir well until the sugar is completely dissolved.
- Steep Tea: Add the 10 black tea bags to the sugar-water mixture and let them steep for 10 minutes. The longer you steep, the stronger the tea flavor will be.
- Remove Tea Bags: Take out the tea bags carefully to avoid over-steeping and bitterness.
- Add Lemon Juice and Water: Pour in the freshly squeezed juice of 6 lemons, then fill the rest of the pitcher with cold water to dilute and cool the tea slightly.
- Chill: Place the pitcher in the refrigerator and chill until the tea is cold and refreshing.
- Serve: Add ice cubes and lemon slices to glasses, then pour the chilled lemon iced tea over them. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Adjust the sugar according to your taste preferences, starting with ¾ cup and increasing up to 1 cup if you prefer a sweeter tea.
- Baking soda helps reduce the bitterness of the tea and makes the brew smoother.
- For a stronger flavor, steep the tea bags longer but watch carefully to avoid bitterness.
- Use fresh lemons for the best citrus flavor and aroma.
- Serve with ice and garnish with lemon slices for a classic presentation.
- Can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
