Ice Tea Recipe

Boil water

Bring 8 cups of fresh water to a rolling boil in a kettle or pot.

Steep tea

Place 4 black tea bags in a heatproof pitcher. Pour the boiling water over the tea bags. Cover and let steep for 5 minutes for a standard-strength brew, 7 minutes for stronger flavor. (If using loose leaf, use about 4 teaspoons total placed in a large infuser.)

Remove tea bags

After steeping, remove the tea bags (or strain the loose leaves). Gently press the tea bags against the side of the pitcher with a spoon if you prefer slightly more strength, but avoid squeezing too hard to prevent bitterness.

Cool to room temperature

Let the brewed tea cool at room temperature for 20–30 minutes, uncovered, until it stops steaming.

Chill

Place the cooled tea in the refrigerator and chill for at least 1 hour, or until cold.

Serve over ice

Fill glasses with ice cubes (about 1 cup of ice per 8-ounce glass). Pour the chilled tea over the ice.

Garnish (optional)

Add a lemon slice and a mint sprig to each glass if desired. Serve immediately. This recipe is unsweetened; offer sugar, honey, or simple syrup on the side for guests who prefer sweetened tea.