Peach Paradise Recipe

Heat and steep

Bring 12 oz (about 350 ml) of water to just under boiling for white tea (around 175°F / 80°C) or to 195°F / 90°C for mild black tea. Pour water over 2 tsp tea leaves in a heatproof teapot or infuser and steep for 3 minutes for white tea or 3–4 minutes for mild black tea. Do not over-steep to avoid bitterness.

After steeping, remove the leaves or strain the tea into a heatproof container. Allow the brewed tea to cool at room temperature for 10–15 minutes, then transfer to the refrigerator and chill for at least 30 minutes (you can speed this with an ice bath).

Prepare fruit and puree

While the tea cools, place the peeled, pitted and thinly sliced ripe peach (or 3/4 cup sliced peaches) in a small bowl. Mash 2 tbsp peach puree together with the fresh peach slices so the flavors meld; add 1 tsp fresh lemon juice to brighten the fruit.

For a stronger peach flavor: warm the peach slices and puree gently in a small saucepan over low heat for 2–3 minutes, just until fragrant (do not boil). Allow to cool before proceeding.

Combine tea and peach

In a mixing pitcher, add the chilled tea (about 12 oz), the mashed peach + puree mixture, and 1 tsp honey or simple syrup. Stir vigorously for 20–30 seconds to combine and dissolve the sweetener.

Taste and adjust sweetness, adding more honey or simple syrup to taste if desired.

Serve

Fill a large glass with 6 ice cubes. Pour the combined peach tea over the ice, allowing some peach pieces to accompany the drink. Gently stir once.

Garnish with 3 fresh mint leaves (slap between your palms to release aroma) and a thin peach slice on the rim. Serve immediately.

Optional variations: for an iced sparkling version, replace up to 4 oz of chilled tea with chilled sparkling water and add the peach components afterward.