Description
Enjoy a refreshing Southern Peach Iced Tea, perfect for hot summer days! This delightful drink combines strong black tea with fresh peaches and a hint of lemon, creating a sweet and fruity beverage thats sure to impress.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups of water
- 4 black tea bags (English Breakfast or Lipton recommended)
- 2 ripe peaches, pitted and sliced
- 1 cup of sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup of fresh peach juice (or store-bought)
- 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice (optional)
- Ice cubes
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Boil 4 cups of water in a medium-sized pot (filtered water is best).
- Once boiling, remove from heat and add the 4 black tea bags. Steep for 5-7 minutes, adjusting steeping time for desired strength.
- Remove tea bags and stir in 1 cup of sugar while the tea is warm to ensure it dissolves completely. Adjust sugar to taste.
- Allow the sweetened tea to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Wash the peaches thoroughly under running water.
- Slice the peaches in half, remove the pits, and cut into thin wedges. For a smoother texture, puree in a blender.
- If using fresh peach juice, blend the sliced peaches with a little water and strain through a fine mesh sieve.
- Set aside the sliced peaches and peach juice. Optionally, sprinkle sugar over the peaches and let them macerate for 10 minutes.
- Once the tea is chilled, combine it with the fresh peach juice in a large pitcher. Stir gently.
- Add the tablespoon of fresh lemon juice for added brightness, if desired.
- Incorporate the sliced peaches into the pitcher for flavor and presentation.
- Fill tall glasses with ice cubes (large cubes recommended).
- Pour the peach iced tea over the ice, filling each glass about three-quarters full.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a beautiful touch and refreshing aroma.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Prepare the tea and peach juice mixture ahead of time and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Add sliced peaches and ice just before serving.
- For an adult version, consider adding a splash of bourbon or vodka.
- Substitute peaches with other fruits like strawberries or mangoes if not in season, adjusting sugar as needed.
- For a caffeine-free option, use herbal tea instead of black tea.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes