Vegan Iced Tea
On a hot day, nothing hits the spot quite like this herbal iced tea blend I've been tweaking for years, inspired by my great-grandma's sun tea tradition.
I remember the first time I tried making my own iced tea; it was a scorcher of a day, and I craved something soothing yet invigorating.
I stumbled upon the secret of cold-brewing in the fridge for a smoother taste, and now I can't go back.
The best part is drizzling just a hint of maple syrup for that perfect touch of sweetness without overpowering the natural tea flavors.
This recipe feels like a refreshing hug on a sweltering afternoon, and I love sharing it with friends who drop by.
What Makes This Recipe Special
- ✓Made with simple, plant-based ingredients that are easy to find
- ✓No animal products - completely vegan and cruelty-free
- ✓Perfect for beginners and experienced cooks alike
- ✓Delicious results that everyone will love, vegan or not
Ingredients & Substitutions
I always go for high-quality loose leaf tea; the difference in taste is noticeable. If you're out of maple syrup, agave nectar or stevia work just fine, although I find maple adds a bit more depth.
Tips & Notes
- •If you want a deeper flavor, let it steep overnight in the fridge. Trust me, patience pays off!
- •I sometimes add a splash of freshly squeezed lemon juice just before serving for a zesty kick.
- •Keep a batch in the fridge for impromptu guests or as a quick afternoon pick-me-up.
Recipe Variations
- •If I'm feeling adventurous, I'll toss in some fresh basil leaves during steeping for an aromatic surprise.
- •My sister swears by adding a handful of raspberries to hers; it adds a lovely fruity note.
Storage & Freezing
Store any leftover iced tea in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If it becomes too strong, you can dilute it with additional water or ice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use tea bags instead of loose tea?
Yes, you can use 2 tea bags in place of loose tea. Steeping time may vary based on the tea type.
How can I make flavored iced tea?
You can add fresh fruits, herbs, or spices during the steeping process for additional flavors.
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On a hot day, nothing hits the spot quite like this herbal iced tea blend I've been tweaking for years, inspired by my great-grandma's sun tea tradition.
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of filtered water to a boil over medium-high heat.
- 2
Once boiling, remove the saucepan from heat and add 4 teaspoons of loose tea.
- 3
Cover the saucepan and let the tea steep for 10-15 minutes, depending on how strong you like it.
- 4
After steeping, strain the tea into a pitcher to remove the tea leaves.
- 5
Stir in 2 tablespoons of maple syrup and 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, adjusting sweetness and acidity to your preference.
- 6
Let the tea cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- 7
To serve, fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the chilled tea over the ice.
- 8
Garnish with lemon slices or fresh mint if desired, and enjoy!
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