Southern Strawberry Sweet Tea for this hot summer

Ingredients

  • 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 1 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 8 cups water, divided
  • 4-6 black tea bags (like Luzianne or Lipton, or your favorite)
  • 1 lemon, sliced (optional)
  • Ice cubes
  • Fresh mint leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Make the Strawberry Syrup:
    In a medium saucepan, combine the sliced strawberries, 1 cup sugar, and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes until the strawberries break down. Remove from heat and strain through a fine mesh sieve to remove the pulp. Let the syrup cool.
  2. Brew the Tea:
    Bring the remaining 6 cups of water to a boil. Remove from heat and add the tea bags. Steep for about 5-7 minutes (longer for stronger tea). Remove the tea bags and let the tea cool slightly.
  3. Combine:
    In a large pitcher, combine the brewed tea with the cooled strawberry syrup. Stir well. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed — you can add a little more sugar while the tea is still warm if you like it sweeter.
  4. Serve:
    Fill glasses with plenty of ice, pour over the sweet strawberry tea, and garnish with fresh lemon slices and mint if desired.
  5. Enjoy!
    Refresh yourself with this sweet Southern classic — perfect for porch sipping on hot summer days!

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