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Sweet Tea

Sweet Tea

by Every Southern Mama

Cold, sweet, refreshing sweet tea - the table wine of the South.

🍹 Beverages Prep: 5 minutes Cook: 10 minutes Servings: 1 gallon

Ingredients

  • 4-6 family-size tea bags (or 12 regular)
  • 8 cups water (divided)
  • 1-1.5 cups sugar
  • Ice

Instructions

  1. Bring 4 cups water to a boil.
  2. Remove from heat and add tea bags.
  3. Steep 5-8 minutes (longer = stronger).
  4. Remove tea bags without squeezing (prevents bitterness).
  5. Add sugar to hot tea and stir until dissolved.
  6. Pour into a gallon pitcher.
  7. Add remaining 4 cups cold water.
  8. Add ice to fill, or refrigerate until cold.
  9. Serve over ice with lemon wedges.

💡 Tips & Notes

The secret is adding sugar while the tea is hot - it dissolves better. Adjust sweetness to your taste. Some add a pinch of baking soda to cut bitterness.