Iced Tea

Original Recipe from:  Kay Johnson-Tomblin

My Aunt Bernie taught me how to make iced tea when I was a young teenager.  She made the best iced tea I’ve ever tasted.  I never wrote down Aunt Bernie’s instructions and I know I make it just a little bit different than she did.  Being an avid tea drinker, I think iced tea is the perfect summer beverage.  It is a healthy alternative to sodas and juices, and is very refreshing.  If you prefer flavored teas, follow the instructions below using your favorite herbal or flavored tea bags. 

Boiled Iced Tea

Instructions for 2 Quarts (Half-Gallon)

8 cups Boiling Water

4-5 regular sized tea bags or 2 family sized tea bags

2 trays ice cubes

Bring water to a rolling boil, remove from heat.  Pour boiling water over the tea bags into a glass pitcher or carafe.  Brew tea for 5-10 minutes.

After tea is brewed, remove the tea bags and add ice cubes.  After ice has melted, add additional water (or ice) as needed, to fill your 64 ounce pitcher.  Store in the refrigerator.

Note:  This recipe is easily doubled or cut in half as needed.  Iced tea is best when it is fresh.  Do not make more than a 2-3 day supply as it tends to get a little bitter with age. 

Sun Tea

Place 6-8 regular sized tea bags or 3 family sized tea bags in a clean, gallon jar and fill with cold water.  Cap loosely and place in hot sunshine for 3-4 hours.  Remove tea bags and store in the refrigerator.