Description
A refreshing Southern American Peach Sweet Tea recipe combining ripe peaches and black tea to create a naturally sweetened iced beverage perfect for summer afternoons.
Ingredients
Scale
Peach Syrup
- 4 ripe peaches, pitted and sliced
- 2 cups water
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
Tea
- 6 cups water
- 4 black tea bags
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
To Serve
- Ice
- Fresh peach slices (optional)
- Mint for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Make Peach Syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine the sliced peaches, 2 cups of water, and the sugar. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10–15 minutes, mashing the peaches slightly as they soften to release their juices.
- Strain Peach Syrup: Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve, pressing down to extract as much juice and syrup as possible. Discard the peach solids.
- Brew Tea: In a separate pot, bring the remaining 6 cups of water to a boil. Remove from heat, add the 4 black tea bags, and steep for 5–7 minutes according to desired strength. Remove and discard the tea bags.
- Combine Tea and Syrup: Stir the peach syrup into the brewed tea along with lemon juice if using. Mix well to combine all flavors.
- Chill and Serve: Allow the tea to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until thoroughly chilled. Serve over ice and garnish with fresh peach slices and mint if desired.
Notes
- For a smoother tea, strain the peach syrup thoroughly.
- Use white tea or green tea instead of black tea for a lighter flavor variation.
- The peach syrup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to one week.
