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Ingredients
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Iced Lemon Tea Base
Dilution & Serving
Method
Iced Lemon Tea Base
- 1
Brew strong black tea
Bring 250 ml water to a near boil (about 95°C / 203°F). Add 1 standard black tea bag or 1 tablespoon of loose-leaf black tea to the hot water. Steep for 4–5 minutes to achieve a strong brew, then remove the tea bag or strain out the leaves.
- 2
While the tea is still hot, stir in 2 teaspoons granulated sugar until fully dissolved. If you prefer less or more sweetness, adjust to taste. Stir in 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice and 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional) until combined.
- 3
Allow the sweetened lemon tea to cool at room temperature for 10–15 minutes, then place in the refrigerator (or an ice bath) to chill until cold — about 20 minutes if using an ice bath, or 45–60 minutes in the fridge.
Dilution & Serving
- 4
Fill a 355 ml serving glass with 1 cup of ice cubes. Pour the chilled lemon tea concentrate over the ice, filling about 230 ml (this is the brewed portion). Top with 125 ml cold water or additional chilled tea to reach a total volume of approximately 355 ml; this dilutes the strong brew to a balanced strength similar to commercial iced lemon tea.
- 5
Stir gently to combine. Taste and adjust sweetness or lemon by stirring in a little more sugar or lemon juice if needed.
- 6