How to Make Iced Tea with Loose Leaf Tea
How to Make Iced Tea with Loose Leaf Tea
As the temperatures rise, there’s nothing more refreshing than a glass of iced tea. Making iced tea with loose leaf tea not only brings out the best flavors but also allows you to customize your drink just the way you like it. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create the perfect iced tea using our premium loose leaf teas.
Why Choose Loose Leaf Tea?
Loose leaf tea offers a richer and more robust flavor compared to tea bags. The larger leaves used in loose leaf tea provide a greater surface area, allowing for a more complete infusion. This results in a fresher, more flavorful cup of tea.
What You'll Need:
Loose leaf tea (choose your favorite blend)
Fresh, cold water
A kettle or pot to boil water
A tea infuser or strainer
Ice cubes
Sweetener (optional)
Lemon slices, mint leaves, or fresh fruit for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Select Your Loose Leaf Tea
Start by choosing a high-quality loose leaf tea. Here are some of our top recommendations for iced tea:
Raspberry Merinuge Green Tea: This fruity green tea with hints of raspberry and meringue is perfect for a light and refreshing iced tea.
Earl of Breton Black Tea: A modern take on the classic Earl Grey, this black tea with subtle bergamot and lemon myrtle makes a sophisticated iced tea.
Chocolate Mint Cookie: A caffeine-free option with mint and chocolate notes, that makes for a refreshing iced tea.
2. Measure the Tea
Use about 1 teaspoon of loose leaf tea per 8 ounces of water. For a stronger flavor, you can increase the amount of tea.
3. Boil the Water
Heat water to the appropriate temperature for your chosen tea:
Black Tea: 200-212°F (95-100°C) for 4-5 minutes.
Green Tea: 170-185°F (75-85°C) for 2-3 minutes.
Herbal Tea: 200-212°F (95-100°C) for 5-7 minutes.
4. Steep the Tea
Place the loose leaf tea in a tea infuser or strainer and steep it in the hot water for the recommended time. This step is crucial to ensure you get the best flavor without bitterness.
5. Sweeten (Optional)
If you like your iced tea sweetened, add sugar, honey, or your preferred sweetener while the tea is still warm. This will help the sweetener dissolve more easily.
6. Cool the Tea
Let the brewed tea cool to room temperature. For quicker cooling, you can place the tea in a container and set it in an ice bath.
7. Chill the Tea
Once cooled, transfer the tea to the refrigerator to chill completely. You can also make a large batch and store it in the fridge for convenience.
8. Serve Over Ice
Fill a glass with ice cubes and pour the chilled tea over the ice. For an added touch, garnish with lemon slices, mint leaves, or fresh fruit.
9. Enjoy!
Now, sit back, relax, and enjoy your homemade iced tea. Feel free to experiment with different blends and garnishes to find your perfect summer drink.
Our Favorite Iced Tea Blends:
Raspberry Merinuge Green Tea: Delight in the fresh raspberry notes and light green tea base.
Earl of Breton Black Tea: Experience the elegant blend of black tea with hints of bergamot and lemon myrtle.
Chocolate Mint Cookie: A caffeine-free option with mint and chocolate notes, that makes for a refreshing iced tea.
Making iced tea with loose leaf tea is a delightful way to enjoy the rich and complex flavors of premium teas. With these simple steps, you can create a delicious and refreshing iced tea that’s perfect for hot summer days. Cheers to enjoying the best iced tea at home!
