Unsweetened Tea Recipe
Make Unsweetened Tea Recipe in just 2h . Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
Was this page helpful?
Help improve this recipe for others.
Send this recipe to your inbox.
We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.
Ingredients
Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Tea
Method
Tea
Steep the tea
Remove the pot from heat. If using tea bags, add 4 black tea bags to the hot water. If using loose-leaf tea, place 8 teaspoons in a tea infuser or a heatproof strainer and put it into the hot water. Cover the pot and let the tea steep for 4 to 6 minutes for a standard-strength unsweetened black tea (use 4 minutes for lighter, 6 minutes for stronger).
Remove tea leaves/bags
After steeping, remove the tea bags or strain out the loose tea leaves to stop extraction and prevent bitterness.
Cool to room temperature
Allow the brewed tea to cool at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes, uncovered or loosely covered so steam can escape.
Chill the tea
Transfer the cooled tea to a pitcher and place it in the refrigerator until cold, about 1 to 2 hours. Alternatively, to chill quickly, fill a large pitcher with the tea and add 2 cups of ice cubes; the ice will melt slightly and cool the tea rapidly (adjust ice amount if you want less dilution).
Storage
Cover and refrigerate any leftover tea for up to 3 to 5 days. Stir or gently shake before serving if separation occurs. Do not sweeten in advance if you want strictly unsweetened; add sweetener per glass at serving if desired.