How to Make British Style Iced Tea

There's nothing better than a cooling, citrus-scented glass of iced tea for ultimate refreshment. This classic drink is easy to make at home and you can add your own personal touch with favorite teas and garnishes.

Ingredients

4 tea bags 1 tablespoon sugar (optional) 1-2 lemons, sliced Mint sprigs to serve

Method

Add the teabags and sugar (if using) and half the lemon slices, reserving the rest for serving, to a large heatproof jug or pitcher. Pour over 1 liter of just-boiled water and leave to steep for 5 minutes. Stir well, then discard the teabags and lemon slices. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature before transferring to the fridge to chill. The tea will keep for 2-3 days covered in the fridge. When ready to serve, fill the glasses with ice and add the remaining lemon slices. Pour in the chilled tea and garnish with a sprig of mint.

The Traditional Answer

The simple answer you might not like is...

You don’t make iced tea with tea.

Traditionalists would argue that tea is a hot beverage, always prepared using boiling water in a teapot, preferably using loose-leaf tea. It is served with either milk, or if you're feeling adventurous, a slice of lemon with added sugar to taste.

Allowing tea to cold steep in a cool place, or even creating an alcoholic version without the actual tea, is considered unorthodox. Traditionalists might not approve.

The Modern Recipe

But, if we must listen to tradition, here's a recipe for iced tea found on the BBC Good Food website. You can trust Auntie Beeb to know what to do. Give it a try for a refreshing twist on a classic drink.

Peach Iced Tea Option

I also quite like peach iced tea, particularly this Italian brand - Estathe. Another interesting variation is to partially freeze and shake it to make a peach tea slushy for a fun, summery twist.