Sweet Tea Concentrate is a beloved Southern beverage that offers a refreshing and sweet escape from the heat. This concentrated form of sweet tea allows you to have a flavorful and convenient base on hand to create a refreshing glass of iced tea anytime. With its roots deeply embedded in Southern culture, Sweet Tea Concentrate has become a symbol of hospitality and a staple at picnics, barbecues, and family gatherings. In this detailed guide, we will explore the history and origins of Sweet Tea, and provide a step-by-step preparation process to help you create this quintessential Southern drink in your own kitchen.

The history of sweet tea can be traced back to the 19th century, where it gained popularity in the American South, particularly in the states of Georgia and South Carolina. Tea, brought to the region by British colonizers, became a cherished beverage in Southern households. As ice became more accessible and sugar prices decreased, the tradition of sweetening the tea and serving it over ice emerged.

Sweet Tea quickly became a hallmark of Southern hospitality and a refreshing escape from the hot and humid climate. The combination of tea, sugar, and ice provided a delightful balance of flavors, quenching thirst and offering respite from the heat. Sweet Tea became an integral part of Southern culinary culture, enjoyed at home and shared with friends and neighbors.

PREP: 30 MIN. + COOLING

MAKES: 20 SERVINGS (5 CUPS CONCENTRATE)

INGREDIENTS 

• 4 cups water
• 6-8 tea bags (black tea, such as Lipton or Luzianne)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• Lemon slices (optional, for garnish)
• Fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)
• Ice cubes (for serving)

INSTRUCTIONS

1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil over high heat.
2. Remove the saucepan from the heat and add the tea bags. Let them steep for 5-7 minutes, or until the desired strength is reached. Note that the longer the tea steeps, the stronger the flavor will be.
3. Remove the tea bags from the saucepan and discard them.
4. Stir in the granulated sugar, mixing well until it dissolves completely.
5. Return the saucepan to low heat and simmer the mixture for an additional 5 minutes to ensure the sugar is fully incorporated and the flavors meld together.
6. Remove the saucepan from heat and let the Sweet Tea Concentrate cool to room temperature.
7. Once cooled, transfer the concentrate to a glass jar or container with a tight-fitting lid. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
8. To serve, fill a glass with ice cubes and pour the desired amount of Sweet Tea Concentrate over the ice.
9. Add cold water to dilute the concentrate, starting with equal parts water to concentrate and adjusting according to personal preference.
10. Stir well to combine the concentrate and water, ensuring that it is thoroughly mixed.
11. Garnish the Sweet Tea with lemon slices and fresh mint leaves, if desired.
12. Enjoy the refreshing and sweet flavors of Sweet Tea, savoring the taste of Southern hospitality.

NOTES:

• Sweet Tea Concentrate offers a convenient and flavorful way to enjoy the refreshing flavors of this beloved Southern beverage. By following this recipe, you can create a concentrated base that allows you to enjoy a glass of sweet tea anytime. Share the tradition of Sweet Tea with family and friends, and appreciate the rich history and cultural significance of this iconic Southern drink. Serve the Sweet Tea over ice, garnish it with lemon slices and fresh mint, and enjoy the refreshing and sweet flavors that have delighted generations of Southerners. Embrace the hospitality of the South and indulge in the simple pleasure of a tall glass of Sweet Tea.