Did you know that after water, tea is the most frequently consumed beverage in the world? Tea goes hand in hand with images of the United Kingdom, Asia and India. Even in the United States, more than half of the American population drinks tea on any given day. Unlike in other nations, iced tea makes up 85% of the tea consumed in America.
Whether sitting by the pool, enjoying a meal out or just looking for something to quench a thirst, iced tea is a refreshing option.
Bottled iced tea is often a go-to for those are looking to cool off with something other than water or soda. The biggest downfall with bottled iced tea is that many of the varieties are loaded with added sugar. A typical 12 oz. serving of sweetened tea has around 8 teaspoons of sugar along with 135 calories. Diet iced teas will be low in sugars and calories but will contain sugar substitutes like aspartame or sucralose. Unsweetened iced teas may have some flavors added, like lemon, but they are calorie free. If some sweetness is desired, adding a teaspoon of sugar or other sweetener is a much healthier option that the presweetened version.
Instant tea powders that are mixed with water are also popular, but do not offer the all the health benefits that are found in home brewed teas. As with bottled teas, many contain either sugar or sugar substitutes.
Brewing iced tea at home is easy and offers refreshing health benefits.
The first step in making iced tea is choosing a high-quality tea. After all, tea is the flavor that anchors iced tea. Choose the same types you’d gravitate towards when brewing a hot cup. Here’s what to keep top of mind:
- Bags or loose: Both tea bags and loose-leaf teas are suitable for making iced tea—just make sure to remove the bags or strain the tea before serving.
- Caffeinated or not: Any flavor works, and while black iced tea is the drink you likely know best, green, herbal, or fruity teas are all equally delicious when chilled.
- Flavor medley: Unleash your creativity and combine different teas, such as Red Zinger and English breakfast.
The Republic of Tea’s Minister of Fire and Water suggests the following tips for infusing hot tea before cooling and icing it:
Heat Your Water
- Fresh water yields a better cup. Consider using filtered, spring or bottled water.
- Fill your kettle with fresh, cold water and heat to a rolling boil—unless you’re making green or 100% White Tea. In that case, stop short of boiling to avoid “cooking” the delicate tea.
- Iced tea requires a double strength infusion (compared to hot tea). Plan on using about two teaspoons of tea or herbs or two tea bags per six-ounce cup. If using whole leaf tea, place in tea infusing basket or teapot.
Time Your Steeping
- Pour the water over the tea, cover if in a pot, and infuse to taste. Different teas take well to different infusing times. Experiment to find your ideal time. Don’t steep for too long or you’ll find your tea has gone bitter or acidic.
Enjoy Your Homemade Iced Tea
- Remove the tea bag or infuser, or use a strainer for the leaves. Allow the tea to come to room temperature.
- Serve in an iced tea pitcher and sweeten to your liking. Pour into an iced tea glass or cup served over ice.
Once you get your tea-groove going, customize your iced tea. Skip the sweetener and combine iced tea with a bit of lemonade for a sweet and tart flavor. Or add a splash of grape juice for a fruity essence and a pop of color. Stir in some herbs like mint or basil, adding a spring to each glass for a eye appeal Fresh fruit like strawberries, peaches and cherries can also be steeped into teas.
- For those of you who want a tried-and-true recipe, try this mint iced tea. This simple recipe has just 6 ingredients that will offer you just enough sweetness along with a big refreshing flavor.
- Or enjoy this homemade peach iced tea. This beverage easily will quench your summer thirst. Aim to make this recipe with ripe peaches. The sweeter the peaches, the less sugar will be needed.
Stay cool with some refreshing iced tea today!
