I realized today that I have yet to add some basic southern recipes to my website. So...during the next few months I will add a few recipes that are staples in the southern home. Therefore, I must start with southern sweet iced tea. Now you might think this is not really a recipe, but I have found there is a right and wrong way to make iced tea. If you let the tea steep for too long it will be bitter and if you refrigerate the tea it will be cloudy and then you might as well just pour it down the drain. Believe me, I have learned the proper way to make iced tea and it will be perfect every time if you follow my recipe.
You may have noticed I didn't show you how to make iced tea. A southerner only makes SWEET iced tea. However, if you prefer to leave out the sugar you can but I just wouldn't think of doing such a thing.
Directions (makes 2 quarts)
- 3 family size tea bags (prefer Luzianne)
- 2/3 cup sugar
- water
- lemon slices
Directions
Photo A
Put 3 cups water in a large measuring cup (4 cup) and place it in the microwave. Cook until the water begins to boil and then remove the cup. (Be careful. The measuring cup could be really hot.) Add the 3 family size tea bags to the water and let steep for 20 minutes. (Photo A) Don’t let the bags steep for longer than 30 minutes or the tea will be bitter. Remove the tea bags and discard. Cool completely.
While the tea is steeping, place another measuring cup in the microwave with 1 cup of water. Bring the water to a boil and then remove the cup from the microwave. Add the sugar to the water (Photo B) and stir until it is completely dissolved. (Photo C) The liquid should be clear. Cool completely.
Photo B
Photo C
Photo D
Photo E
Add the tea and sugar water (simple syrup) to a large pitcher. (Photo D) Fill the pitcher with cold water to make 2 quarts. (Photo E) Serve over ice with lemon. Can be stored on the counter top for one day after making the brew.