Homemade iced tea is the best way to quench your thirst without any sugar or calorie intake. But you have to know how to prepare it correctly to fully enjoy it.
The cold infusion
This is a method of making iced tea without the heat of boiling water. Fill a large pitcher with room temperature filtered water, then pour the tea over it. Let sit for 3 to 4 hours before straining and refrigerating.
The advantage of this solution is that it allows each ingredient to express itself in the harmony of flavors, and not simply the tea to dominate the whole.
Also, Rooibos and Infusions have the particularity of being able to be infused for longer than 3 to 4 hours. So you can let them steep overnight to make it more convenient.
The hot infusion
The easiest way to make iced tea is to boil water. Fill a pot with water and add tea leaves. Bring to a boil, then turn off the pot and let steep for 10 to 15 minutes. Let cool completely before pouring over ice in tall glasses or a large container to use in the fridge.
The advantage of this method is that the tea will taste strong and potent
To make it less bitter, you can add sugar or honey to reduce the acidity of the tea's tannins. To reduce its astringency, you can also drink fruit juice with lemon squeezed on it as a supplement.
The tea syrup technique
To do this technique you will need:
- 240mL of water
- 128g of sugar
- 3 tablespoons of your favorite tea
First you need to bring water to a boil. Add the tea leaves and herbs to your pot and steep for about 4 minutes, then remove from the heat. Add the sugar and stir until it is completely dissolved. You can store the tea syrup in the refrigerator and preserve its aromas for up to 3 months.
The technique you choose to make iced tea is up to you. You can opt for hot brew, cold brew, or the tea syrup technique. Each has its pros and cons, but they all make for delicious iced tea.