Nothing quite hits the spot on a hot summer day like an icy, delicious glass of sweet tea. Sweet tea is a classic southern beverage, but it’s easy to make anywhere. For those who are unfamiliar with the beverage, sweet tea is a form of iced tea that is brewed with sugar or simple syrup. It is sweet, but not overly sweet, and is the perfect accompaniment to a meal or backyard barbecue.
Ingredients
This recipe makes two quarts of sweet tea, but it can easily be doubled or tripled if more is needed. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 cups of water
- 2 family sized tea bags
- 1/4 cup of white sugar
- 2 cups of cold water
- Ice cubes
Instructions
To make sweet tea, start by bringing 4 cups of water to a boil. Once boiling, turn off heat and add two family sized tea bags. Let the tea bags steep for 3 minutes then remove them. Next, add 1/4 cup of white sugar and stir until it is completely dissolved. Then, add 2 cups of cold water to the hot tea. The cold water helps to cool the tea down quickly. Finally, pour the tea into two glasses over ice cubes and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
Sweet tea is traditionally served with meals and snacks, but can also be enjoyed as a stand-alone beverage. It can be served over ice, with a slice of lemon or lime, or with a sprig of mint. For a special treat, try adding a splash of your favorite fruit juice or sparkling water to the tea. Sweet tea can also be served hot, with a bit of honey or cinnamon added for flavor.
Storage
Sweet tea should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 7 days. If sweet tea is to be served cold, it should be kept in the refrigerator until just before serving. If it is to be served hot, it can be reheated in the microwave or on the stove top.
Nutrition
Sweet tea is low in calories and fat, and has no cholesterol. The primary ingredient is water, which makes it a great choice for those looking to stay hydrated. The addition of sugar adds some carbohydrates and calories, but the amounts are relatively low. One cup of sweet tea has approximately 25 calories and 6 grams of carbohydrates. The tea also contains trace amounts of vitamins and minerals, such as potassium, magnesium, and vitamin C.
Health Benefits
In addition to its delicious flavor, sweet tea offers several health benefits. Studies have shown that drinking tea may help to reduce the risk of certain types of cancers, lower blood pressure, and improve heart health. Tea also contains antioxidants which can help to reduce inflammation and protect against disease. Sweet tea is also a great alternative to sugary drinks like soda and can help to keep your energy levels up throughout the day.
Conclusion
Sweet tea is a classic southern beverage that is easy to make and has several health benefits. It can be enjoyed on its own, with a slice of lemon or lime, or with a splash of your favorite juice or sparkling water. Sweet tea is a refreshing beverage that is perfect for any occasion and is sure to be a hit with family and friends.
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