This iced tea recipe makes a fabulous chilled drink and tastes just like the brand name versions! Use your favorite good-quality black tea and as much sugar and lemon juice as you like for the perfect balance.
For superior iced tea, always opt for a good quality black tea; Orange Pekoe is excellent, but Earl Grey or Ceylon could offer interesting variations. The 1-hour steeping time is crucial for developing robust flavor, but be mindful not to over-steep beyond this, as it can extract excessive tannins, leading to bitterness. For a smoother brew, remove tea bags gently without squeezing them. Adjust the sugar and fresh lemon juice to achieve your desired balance of sweetness and tartness; a simple syrup can be used instead of granulated sugar for faster dissolution and a smoother texture. Serve over plenty of ice, perhaps garnished with fresh lemon slices or a sprig of mint for an elevated presentation.