Introduction
Are you looking for a refreshing and easy drink to make during the hot summer months? Look no further than sun tea! Sun tea is a simple and delicious way to make iced tea using the heat from the sun. In this guide, we’ll provide a step-by-step guide to making sun tea, including the ingredients and equipment you’ll need, how to prepare the container and water, and tips for selecting the right tea leaves or bags.
Ingredients and Equipment Needed
To make sun tea, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Water
- Tea leaves or bags
- Sugar or honey (optional)
- Lemon slices (optional)
You’ll also need a container with a lid and a spout, such as a glass pitcher or a large mason jar with a lid. It’s important to use a container that is clean and made of a non-reactive material, such as glass or plastic. Metal containers can react with the tea and affect the taste.
Preparing the Container and Water
Before making sun tea, it’s important to prepare the container and water to ensure the best flavor. First, choose a container that will fit the amount of tea you want to make. A one-gallon container will make approximately eight servings of tea. Next, wash the container with warm soapy water and rinse thoroughly to remove any debris or residue.
Fill the container with cold water from the tap. If your tap water has a strong taste or odor, consider using filtered water instead.
Selecting and Adding Tea Leaves or Bags
The type of tea you use for sun tea is important, as it can affect the flavor and strength of the tea. Black tea, green tea, and herbal tea all work well for sun tea. Use 4-8 tea bags or 2-4 tablespoons of loose tea leaves for each gallon of water, depending on how strong you prefer your tea.
Add the tea bags or loose tea leaves to the container of water. If using loose tea leaves, you can place them in a tea infuser or simply add them directly to the water. Stir the tea leaves or bags gently to ensure they are submerged in the water.
Placing the Container in the Sun
Choose a spot outside where the container will receive a steady amount of sunlight throughout the day. Avoid placing the container in direct sunlight, as this can cause the tea to steep too quickly and become bitter. A partially shaded area is ideal for making sun tea.
Let the tea steep in the sun for 2-4 hours, depending on how strong you prefer your tea. Keep an eye on the container to make sure it isn’t getting too hot, especially on extremely hot days. You can also periodically check the tea by tasting a small amount to ensure it’s the appropriate strength.
Adjusting and Tasting
Once the tea has steeped to your preferred strength, it’s time to adjust the flavor to your tastes. If you prefer sweet tea, add sugar or honey to the tea while it’s still warm, stirring until it dissolves. You can also add lemon slices or other fruit to the tea to give it a citrusy flavor.
Be sure to taste the tea before serving to ensure it’s to your liking. If it’s too weak, you can add more tea bags or loose tea leaves and let it steep for another hour or two. If it’s too strong, you can dilute it with cold water.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to make sun tea, it’s important to know how to store it safely. Once the tea has cooled to room temperature, transfer it to a clean, airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. Sun tea can be enjoyed for up to three days after it’s made.
Finally, enjoy your sun tea with friends and family! It’s the perfect companion for a backyard barbecue or a lazy afternoon on the porch.
