The Secret to Perfect Southern Sweet Tea
User Reviews
5
The Secret to Perfect Southern Sweet Tea
Description
The Secret to Perfect Southern Sweet Tea involves heating two quarts of water just to near simmer, dissolving a heaping cup of granulated sugar in it, then steeping several black tea bags—preferring Luzianne or Lipton brands—with the lid on at room temperature to extract flavor without bitterness. After removing the tea bags carefully to avoid tearing, the concentrated tea is poured into a gallon container and diluted with two more quarts of cold water.
This method results in sweet tea that is smoothly flavored without harshness from boiling or oversteeping. The sugar is dissolved fully in hot water first, which contributes to the even sweetness characteristic of Southern sweet tea. Serving over ice provides a cooling, refreshing drink with an even sweetness and classic tea flavor.
Adjusting sweetness can be done by substituting simple syrup for granulated sugar, allowing individual preferences at the table. Using high-quality tea and good-quality water enhances the taste, with pre-soaking tap water recommended to reduce chlorine. Avoid boiling tea bags directly to prevent rough tasting tea.
Ingredients
- 2 Quarts water fresh, cold
- 1 granulated sugar heaping cup, white
- 4 tea bag we prefer Luzianne or Lipton, regular size or one gallon size
- 2 Quarts water fresh, cold
Instructions
- In a medium sized stock pot heat 2 quarts of fresh water over medium high heat.
- When the water is near a simmer, turn the heat off. Add the 1 Cup of sugar and stir until sugar dissolves.
- Place the tea bags into the water, place the lid on the saucepan. Allow to come to room temperature.
- Remove the tea bags and gently squeeze to remove any remaining tea. Use care not to tear the tea bags. Discard tea bags.
- Pour the tea concentrate into a gallon size tea pitcher and add the remaining 2 quarts of cool water.
- Serve over a full glass of ice cubes.
Notes
- Sugar sweetness can be customized by preparing simple syrup instead of dissolving sugar directly, allowing individuals to add syrup to taste.
- Choose good-quality tea brands like Luzianne or Lipton for best flavor results.
- Use clean, fresh water; if using tap water, let it sit overnight to reduce chlorine taste before brewing.
- Never boil tea bags directly, as this causes bitterness; steep tea in hot, but not boiling water.
- If available, use gallon-size tea bags to simplify the steeping process.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 8servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 1 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 1kcal | 0% |
| Sodium | 23mg | 1% |
| Calcium | 14mg | 1% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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