Description
Refreshing Orange Rosemary Iced Tea: homemade black tea infused with rosemary simple syrup and fresh orange juice, perfect for a hot day.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 cups water, divided
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 bags black tea (or equivalent loose leaf)
- 2 large oranges, one for juicing, one for slicing
- 4 sprigs fresh rosemary, divided
- Ice, for serving
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of water and the granulated sugar. Place the saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir the mixture constantly until the sugar is completely dissolved. The liquid should be clear with no sugar granules visible.
- Add 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary to the saucepan. Gently press them down into the syrup.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the syrup simmer for 10-15 minutes to infuse the rosemary flavor.
- Remove from heat and let cool completely.
- Strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean jar or container. Discard the rosemary sprigs.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Bring the remaining 7 cups of water to a rolling boil.
- Place the 6 black tea bags (or equivalent loose leaf tea in a tea infuser) into a heat-resistant pitcher or large bowl. Pour the boiling water over the tea bags.
- Steep for 5-7 minutes, depending on desired strength.
- Remove tea bags and squeeze out any excess liquid. Discard the tea bags.
- Let the brewed tea cool to room temperature.
- Juice one of the large oranges (about ½ cup of juice).
- Pour the cooled black tea into a large pitcher. Add the fresh orange juice and ½ cup of the rosemary simple syrup (adjust to taste).
- Stir well to combine.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably longer, to chill and allow flavors to meld.
- Fill glasses with ice.
- Slice the remaining orange into thin rounds. Add a slice of orange and a sprig of fresh rosemary to each glass.
- Pour the chilled Orange Rosemary Iced Tea into the prepared glasses.
- Garnish with an orange wedge or rosemary leaves (optional).
- Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- Sweetness: Adjust the amount of rosemary simple syrup to your liking.
- Tea Strength: Adjust the steeping time of the black tea to your preference.
- Citrus: You can experiment with other citrus fruits, such as lemons or grapefruits, in place of the orange.
- Herbs: Try using other herbs, such as mint or thyme, in place of the rosemary.
- Sparkling Tea: For a sparkling version of this tea, top each glass with a splash of sparkling water or club soda before serving.
- Make it a Cocktail: Add a shot of vodka or gin for an adult twist.
- Sugar Substitute: You can use a sugar substitute in the simple syrup, but be aware that it may affect the flavor and texture.
- Loose Leaf Tea: If you prefer loose leaf tea, use about 2 tablespoons of loose leaf black tea in place of the tea bags.
- Make Ahead: The Orange Rosemary Iced Tea can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Serving Suggestions: This Orange Rosemary Iced Tea is perfect for serving at parties, picnics, or any occasion where you want a refreshing and flavorful beverage. It pairs well with a variety of foods, including salads, sandwiches, and grilled meats.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes