Are you team ice tea or prefer your steeped leaves steaming hot? Turns out the debate about the best way to enjoy your morning brew is a storm in a teacup – with 61% of Aussie black tea drinkers admitting they enjoy an iced tea to cool down. Looking to create the perfect cooling cuppa as the weather warms up? Suzy Garraghan, Senior Tea Buyer and Taster at Yorkshire Tea, spills the tea with these eight easy iced tea tips.
In cold water
According to Suzy, the quality of your water is the unsung hero when brewing iced tea. Crisp, clean water makes for a tea-rific sip, every time. That’s why starting with freshly boiled water from a freshly drawn tap is crucial. It’s a simple step but makes all the difference to ensure your iced tea is smooth, flavourful, and refreshing. Using stale or reboiled water can leave your tea tasting flat or even bitter, so it’s important to get this first step right.
Quality cups
The foundation of great iced tea lies in the tea bags you choose. For the best brew, use high-quality tea bags from trusted brands, known for their rich flavour and superior quality. Good ingredients equal good results, so don’t settle for anything less than the finest tea bags, says Suzy. So, if you want your iced tea to be something truly brew-tiful start with tea that’s crafted to deliver bold flavours that can hold up to being served cold.
Brew stronger. But not for longer
Making iced tea requires a stronger brew than your regular cup of hot tea. To get that rich tea flavour that doesn’t get lost among the ice, you need to double up on the tea bags. Suzy suggests using twice as many bags as you normally would for hot tea. This guarantees that even when diluted with ice, the flavour remains bold and strong, delivering the full-bodied taste you expect from a proper cuppa. The extra tea bags will ensure that your iced tea doesn’t come across as weak or watered down.
Team time
Let those tea bags steep in style. Suzy emphasises the importance of patience when brewing iced tea. Leave the bags to steep for four to five minutes, allowing the leaves to release their full range of flavours. This slow and steady process results in a tea that’s rich, deep, and complex without any bitterness. While it might be tempting to rush the brew, remember that a little extra time makes all the difference in crafting a drink that’s your cup of tea.
Swift and sweet
If you like your iced tea on the sweeter side, timing is key. Suzy recommends adding sugar, honey, or a squeeze of lemon as soon as the tea has finished brewing. This is when the tea is still warm, making it easier for the sweeteners to dissolve evenly. Adding sweeteners at the right moment ensures that the flavours are balanced and won’t overpower the tea. Whether you prefer a hint of honey or a zesty touch of lemon, make sure to sweeten your tea while it’s hot for the best results.
No time to tea and chill
In a rush to enjoy your iced tea? No worries! Suzy’s got a quick fix for you. Simply fill half your jug with ice, then pour your freshly brewed tea right over it. This trick chills your tea instantly, so you don’t have to wait for it to cool in the fridge. It’s a great hack for those who want their iced tea immediately without compromising on flavour or freshness. You’ll have an ice-cold brew ready to sip in no time.
Creative cups
Feeling a little adventurous? Suzy encourages you to get creative with your iced tea by mixing half a jug of tea with your favourite milk. This adds a creamy, rich texture to your drink, giving it a refreshing twist on the classic iced tea. It’s perfect for those who love a creamier flavour profile. Alternatively, you can experiment with adding fresh fruits, herbs, or even spices to your iced tea. Mint, berries, or a slice of peach can transform your drink into a delightful, unique experience. The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to mix things up and create your own signature iced tea.
Tea-riffic storage tips
Finally, after you’ve brewed your perfect iced tea, proper storage is key to keeping it fresh and delicious. Suzy suggests storing your iced tea in a glass container, as it helps maintain the tea’s flavour and freshness. Avoid plastic containers, as they can sometimes alter the taste. With the right storage, your tea will stay flavourful all day long, ready for you to enjoy whenever you need a cool, refreshing sip.
