Description
This refreshing Peach Basil Iced Tea combines the natural sweetness of ripe peaches with aromatic fresh basil and robust black tea, sweetened lightly with honey or sugar and brightened with lemon juice. Perfectly chilled, it’s a delightful summer beverage that’s easy to prepare and serves six.
Ingredients
Scale
Tea Base
- 4 black tea bags
- 4 cups water
Flavorings
- 4 ripe peaches, sliced
- 10 fresh basil leaves
- 1/2 cup sugar or honey (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions
- Steep the tea: Boil 4 cups of water in a saucepan. Once boiling, remove from heat and place 4 black tea bags into the hot water. Allow the tea bags to steep for 5 minutes to extract a rich flavor.
- Sweeten the tea: While the tea is still warm, stir in 1/2 cup sugar or honey until fully dissolved, adjusting the sweetness according to personal preference.
- Add peaches and basil: Add the sliced peaches and 10 fresh basil leaves to the tea mixture. Gently muddle the peaches and basil to release their natural flavors into the tea without breaking them down completely.
- Cool the mixture: Let the tea cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Then place the tea in the refrigerator and chill for at least 1 hour to develop a refreshing cold beverage.
- Finish and serve: Before serving, stir in 2 tablespoons of lemon juice for brightness. Pour the iced tea over ice cubes and garnish with extra peach slices or basil leaves for an attractive presentation.
Notes
- Adjust the sweetness by using more or less sugar or honey according to your taste.
- For a stronger basil flavor, add a few more leaves or lightly bruise them before adding.
- Use ripe, juicy peaches for the best natural sweetness and aroma.
- This tea can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- For a sparkling twist, try adding soda water before serving.
