How to Make Sweet Sun Tea: A Guide

Growing up, the homemade sweet sun tea was a beverage that was always made in abundance in our household. It was a refreshing summer drink that never failed to quench our thirst and provide a moment of relaxation. Back then, we consumed pitcher after pitcher, and fortunately, we never fell ill from it. However, as with any food or drink, there are certain potential risks involved, particularly when relying on unclean tap water as the base. In this article, we will explore the steps to make a safe and delicious sweet sun tea, along with tips on how to ensure its cleanliness and taste.

Potential Risks and Safety Measures

It has been observed that the heat from the sun can potentially turn unclean tap water into a breeding ground for bacteria. Therefore, the unsanitized water used in sun tea can pose a health risk. However, this can be mitigated by boiling the water beforehand before using it for the tea. Alternatively, using clean filtered water or even purified water would also work perfectly well. I would personally wait to sweeten the tea until it has finished brewing and is ready to be used or chilled.

Ingredients and Tools Needed

To make a perfect sweet sun tea, you will need the following ingredients and tools:

6 single-serving tea bags (or family-size teabags) 18 teaspoons baking soda (optional for additional flavor and subtle sweetness) 2 cups of boiling water (to steep the tea) 1 to 1.5 cups of sugar (adjust to taste) 6 cups of cold water (for final volume) A large glass measuring cup A 2-quart pitcher Sugar container or a spoon for mixing A large sunny windowsill or a sunny outdoor area Refrigerator (for chilling)

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Preparation
Begin by selecting your tea. For this recipe, we recommend using Luzianne tea. However, you can also use their sweet tea concentrate if you prefer. Available in both family-size and single-serving teabags, choose what suits your needs best.

Step 2: Steeping the Tea
- In a large glass measuring cup, place the tea bags.
- Add 18 teaspoons of baking soda (optional) to enhance the flavor.

Step 3: Boiling Water
- Pour 2 cups of boiling water over the tea bags.
- Cover the glass measuring cup and let it steep for 15 minutes. Do not squeeze the tea bags during this process to avoid a bitter taste.

Step 4: Adding Sugar and Cold Water
- Remove the tea bags and discard them.
- In the same glass measuring cup, add sugar according to your taste preferences. Personally, I would prefer about 1 cup of sugar for a more balanced sweetness.
- Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved.
- Add 6 cups of cold water to the mixture and stir well.

Step 5: Chilling and Serving
- Pour the sweetened tea into a 2-quart pitcher.
- Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until it reaches your preferred temperature.
- Serve over ice and enjoy your refreshing, sweet sun tea!

Tips for Better Sun Tea

To ensure your sun tea is the perfect blend of delicious and safe, consider the following tips:

Ensure that the water you use is clean and safe for drinking, either by boiling it first or using bottled water. Adjust the amount of sugar based on your personal taste. Some people prefer sweeter tea, while others prefer it more mild. Place the glass measuring cup in a location that receives plenty of sunlight but is not directly exposed to hot surfaces. Use a large glass measuring cup to maximize the exposure to sunlight and help the tea steep more effectively.

In conclusion, making sweet sun tea is a delightful and refreshing way to enjoy a hot summer day. By following the steps outlined above, you can create a safe and flavorful sun tea that is perfect for quenching your thirst. Whether you use single-serving or family-size teabags, the key to a great sun tea lies in the careful preparation and patience required for the best results.