1. Brew the Tea
In a large pot, bring 6 cups of water to a boil. Once boiling, remove from heat and steep the black tea bags in the hot water for 5–7 minutes , depending on your desired strength. Remove the tea bags and stir in the baking soda to reduce any bitterness.
Pro Tip: Use high-quality tea bags for superior flavor.
2. Make the Simple Syrup
In a separate small saucepan, combine the remaining 2 cups of water and granulated sugar over medium heat. Stir continuously until the sugar dissolves completely, creating a simple syrup. Let the mixture cool slightly before proceeding.
3. Add the Strawberries
Place the chopped strawberries in a blender or food processor and puree until smooth. Strain the puree through a fine-mesh sieve to remove seeds if desired. Set aside.
4. Combine Everything
Pour the brewed tea into a large pitcher and stir in the cooled simple syrup. Add the strawberry puree and mix well until fully combined. Taste and adjust sweetness or fruitiness as needed.
5. Chill and Serve
Refrigerate the tea for at least 1 hour (or longer) to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve over ice with fresh strawberry slices or mint leaves for garnish.
Optional: For an extra touch, drizzle a little honey or splash of lemon juice into each glass.
Tips for Success
- Use Ripe Strawberries : Fresh, ripe strawberries provide the best flavor and color for your tea.
- Adjust Sweetness : Start with less sugar if you prefer a lighter sweetness, then add more as needed.
- Make It Ahead : Prepare the tea up to a day in advance for deeper flavors and easier entertaining.
- Experiment with Variations : Swap out strawberries for other fruits like peaches, raspberries, or blueberries for unique twists.
Conclusion
This Strawberry Sweet Tea is more than just a drink—it’s a slice of Southern charm infused with the brightness of fresh strawberries. With its vibrant color, sweet-tart flavor, and customizable options, it’s guaranteed to become a favorite in your household.
So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to savor this delightful creation! Don’t forget to share your results with us in the comments below—we’d love to see how they turned out.
If you enjoyed this recipe, check out our other articles for more drink inspiration and easy cooking ideas. Happy brewing, and remember—life’s too short not to enjoy something sweet now and then! 🍴✨
