Classic Southern Style Sweet Tea recipes
This recipe crafts a refreshing Southern-style sweet tea, beginning with strong black tea steeped with a touch of baking soda to mellow bitterness. Sugar is dissolved into the hot tea, then diluted with cold water and chilled. It's a classic, perfectly balanced beverage ideal for warm days, offering customizable sweetness and a smooth finish.
Equipment
- 1 Large Pot or Saucepan For boiling water and steeping tea
- 1 Measuring Cups For water and sugar
- 1 Measuring Spoons For baking soda
- 1 Large Pitcher or Dispenser For serving and chilling
- 1 Stirring Spoon or Ladle
Ingredients
Main
- 6 black tea bags
- ⅛ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ to 1-1/2 cups sugar
- water
- ice
Instructions
- Bring 4 cups of water to a rolling boil in a large pot or saucepan.
- Remove the pot from the heat and immediately add the 6 black tea bags and ⅛ teaspoon of baking soda.
- Cover the pot and let the tea steep for 5 to 7 minutes, or longer for a stronger brew.
- Carefully remove and discard the tea bags, avoiding squeezing them to prevent bitterness.
- While the tea is still hot, stir in ½ to 1-½ cups of sugar until it is completely dissolved. Taste and adjust sugar to your preference.
- Pour the sweetened tea into a large pitcher.
- Add 4 cups of cold water to the pitcher, stirring to combine and cool the tea.
- Add ice to the pitcher or individual glasses before serving for immediate enjoyment.
- For optimal refreshment, chill the sweet tea in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.
- Serve cold, optionally garnished with lemon slices or fresh mint.
Notes
The baking soda is a classic Southern trick; it neutralizes tannins, resulting in a smoother, less bitter tea. For optimal flavor, ensure the sugar fully dissolves while the tea is still hot. Adjust the amount of sugar to personal preference, starting with less and adding more if needed. To achieve a perfectly clear tea, avoid squeezing the tea bags when removing them, as this can release bitter compounds and cloudiness. A lemon slice or fresh mint sprig makes a delightful garnish and adds a bright note.