Southern Sweet Tea

Boil 4 cups of water in a medium-sized saucepan.

Once boiling, remove from heat.

Tie the strings of the tea bags together to prevent them from falling into the water.

Drop the tea bags into the pot and give them a quick dunk.

Cover the pot and let the tea steep for about 15 minutes.

After steeping, remove the tea bags and give them a good squeeze.

Add a pinch of baking soda to the tea to prevent bitterness and enhance color.

Measure out 1.5 cups of sugar and add it to the tea, stirring until completely dissolved.

If sugar does not dissolve easily, return the pot to the stove for a little extra heat.

Pour the tea into a gallon pitcher and top off with cold water to fill the pitcher.

Refrigerate the tea to cool for several hours before serving.

Serve with lemon and fresh mint if desired.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level: