Tea (1 Gallon) Recipe

Bring water to a boil

Pour 3,785 ml (1 gallon) of cold water into a large pot or kettle. Heat over high heat until it reaches a full rolling boil.

Steep the tea

Remove the pot from heat. Add 16 black tea bags to the hot water. Submerge the bags fully and allow to steep for 5 to 8 minutes depending on desired strength (5 minutes for lighter, 8 minutes for stronger).

Sweeten (optional)

While the tea is still hot, add 1 cup granulated sugar and stir until completely dissolved. Taste and adjust sweetness, adding up to 1/4 cup more if you prefer sweeter tea.

Cool the tea

Remove and discard the tea bags, gently pressing them against the side of the pot with a spoon to extract remaining liquid (do not squeeze too hard to avoid bitterness). Let the tea come to room temperature (about 20–30 minutes), then transfer to the refrigerator or an ice-filled container to chill more quickly until cold (about 1–2 hours).

Finish and serve

If using, slice 1 fresh lemon into rounds or wedges. Add lemon slices and mint leaves to a serving pitcher or individual glasses. Fill glasses with ice to taste, pour chilled tea over the ice, and garnish with lemon and mint. Serve cold.