This refreshing recipe uses simple, fresh ingredients:
- 4 medium peaches, diced
- 1½ cups granulated sugar (adjust as needed)
- 6 to 8 cups cool water
- 6 to 8 black tea bags or green tea bags
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Ice
- Optional garnishes: mint sprigs, peach slices
Directions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, combine diced peaches and sugar. Stir to coat the peaches, then cover and refrigerate for 24-48 hours until the sugar dissolves, creating a syrup.
- Step 2: Strain the peach syrup, pressing gently on the peaches to extract maximum liquid. Reserve the peach solids for another recipe.
- Step 3: Boil 4 cups of water. Place the tea bags in a heat-proof bowl and pour the boiled water over them. Steep for 5 minutes, then remove tea bags.
- Step 4: Add the remaining 4 cups of cool water to the steeped tea. Allow it to cool to room temperature.
- Step 5: Pour the room-temperature tea into a large pitcher. Add the strained peach syrup and lemon juice, stirring to combine.
- Step 6: Chill the tea fully or serve immediately over ice. Garnish with peach slices and mint sprigs if desired.
Storage Information
The peach syrup can be made up to 48 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Prepare Peach Tea and consume within 3-4 days for the best flavor. You can also freeze the syrup in ice cube trays for spontaneous tea preparation.
Quick Cooked Peach Syrup Method
If you’re short on time, you can create a cooked peach syrup in just 20 minutes:
- Wash, peel, and dice the peaches.
- Combine diced peaches, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, 1 cup of water, and sugar in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Allow the mixture to simmer for 10-15 minutes. Strain through a fine mesh sieve, pressing on solids to extract as much liquid as possible.
- Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until ready to use.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen peaches for this recipe?
Yes, frozen peaches can be used. They may yield a slightly different texture but will still provide excellent flavor.
2. How can I make this recipe without added sugar?
Consider using natural sweeteners like honey or agave syrup instead of granulated sugar, adjusting according to taste.
3. Can I make this tea ahead of time?
Absolutely! Peach syrup can be made in advance and the prepared tea can be stored in the refrigerator for several days.
4. What kind of tea should I use?
Black tea is traditional, but you can use green tea or herbal tea for different flavor profiles.
5. How can I make my Peach Iced Tea more fruity?
You can add other fruits such as strawberries or raspberries during the steeping process to create a mixed fruit iced tea.
Conclusion
With its delightful flavors and refreshing qualities, this Peach Iced Tea is a must-try for summer gatherings. Not only does it look stunning in a glass, but it also brings people together around the table for cherished moments. Enjoy sipping this aromatic beverage while basking in the warm sun, and make this recipe a staple in your seasonal repertoire!
