Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsTerry Black's BarbecueGallon Tea Recipe

Gallon Tea Recipe

Time2h 40m
Serves8

Make Gallon Tea Recipe in just 2h 40m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Tea Base

Optional Flavor & Garnish

Method

Tea Base

  1. 1

    Boil water

    Place 4 liters of fresh cold water in a large pot or kettle and bring to a rolling boil over high heat.

  2. 2

    Steep tea

    Remove from heat. Add 8 black tea bags to the hot water, fully submerging them. Cover the pot and let steep for 5 to 7 minutes for a moderately strong brew (steep up to 10 minutes for stronger tea).

  3. 3

    Sweeten while hot

    Carefully remove the tea bags, gently squeezing them against the pot side with a spoon to extract flavor (avoid tearing). While the tea is still hot, stir in 1 cup granulated sugar until fully dissolved. Taste and adjust sweetness if desired.

  4. 4

    Cool and add lemon

    Allow the sweetened tea to cool at room temperature for 20–30 minutes. Stir in 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice. Transfer the tea to a clean 1-gallon (or larger) pitcher or container. Refrigerate until chilled, at least 2 hours.

Optional Flavor & Garnish

  1. 5

    Prepare mint and lemons

    Lightly bruise the mint leaves by clapping them between your palms or crushing gently with the back of a spoon to release aroma. Slice 6 lemons into thin rounds.

  2. 6

    Assemble and serve

    When ready to serve, add 6 cups of ice to the pitcher or add ice to individual glasses. Add lemon slices and bruised mint leaves to the tea for flavor and garnish. If you prefer a different sweetness, stir in honey or simple syrup to taste. Serve chilled.

  3. 7

    Storage

    Store leftover tea covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Remove ice before storing to avoid dilution.

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