A large jug of homemade iced tea rarely survives long enough for every mint leaf and piece of fruit to give up its flavour. Someone usually pours the first glass before it is fully chilled.
Method, step by step
- Soak the tea in one liter of 90-95 °C water according to the package, then remove the filters. Go slowly and check the texture, aroma and balance of flavors before each subsequent operation.
- Sweeten while still warm, then pour cold water over it. Go slowly and check the texture, aroma and balance of flavors before each subsequent operation.
- Add the lemon, mint and fruit of your choice. Go slowly and check the texture, aroma and balance of flavors before each subsequent operation.
- Cool completely and serve with plenty of ice. Do not shorten this stage: during the rest, the texture settles and the taste becomes more harmonious.
Practical tips and common mistakes
- Do not oversteep the tea, otherwise it will be bitter; give strength with more tea, not longer.
- Adjust the sweetness and acidity gradually, because the flavors may become more muted when cooled.
- Cool thoroughly before serving, then stir or shake to bring the flavors together again.
- Only cool the leftovers and put them in the fridge, covered, and reheat them according to the nature of the food before consumption.
