More than merely a cool beverage, sweet tea is a regional icon that characterizes the hot summers in the South and a sign of welcome during family reunions. When bright red strawberries are in season, they provide a blast of sweetness to a classic Southern Sweet Tea and elevate its taste profile to new heights. Here we have Southern Strawberry Sweet Tea, a delightful fusion of traditional iced tea with the delightful fruit that adorns the spring and summer scenery: luscious strawberries. With its uncomplicated ingredients and celebration of the South’s natural wealth, this cocktail is ideal for people who want to jazz up their garden parties or lazy days on the porch with a fruity touch.
Because of its adaptability, Southern Strawberry Sweet Tea goes well with many different dishes. In the afternoon, serve it over savory scones or light sandwiches for a traditional Southern breakfast. Pair it with some fried chicken, collard greens, and cornbread for a heartier dinner. Also, it goes wonderfully with pimento cheese sandwiches, deviled eggs, pound cake, and other picnic staples.
PAID LISTING
Sweet Strawberry Tea from the South
Recipe Items
1 cup of hulled and halved fresh strawberries
3/4 cup of granulated sugar (or more if desired)
4-bags of strong black tea, ideally Orange Pekoe or another flavor
half a gallon of water-
Garnish with optionally fresh mint leaves
Garnish with optional lemon slices
How to Follow
1. Put half a cup of water and sugar into a small saucepan. Simmer, stirring occasionally, over medium heat until sugar dissolves.
Second, throw in the strawberries with the syrup and bring it all back to a boil. After a few minutes, lower the heat and simmer for another ten, or until the strawberries are tender and the color has cooked out.
3. In a big saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Depending on your preferred strength of tea, steep for 5-7 minutes after removing from heat. Add the tea bags. Take the tea bags out and throw them away.
4. Press down on the particles to extract as much liquid as possible as you pour the strawberry syrup into the tea using a fine mesh strainer.
5. Once the tea and strawberry combination is combined with the rest of the cold water, put it in the fridge to cool completely.
6. Pour over ice and top with lemon slices and fresh mint leaves, if preferred.
