Classic Southern Sweet Tea (1 Gallon)
This recipe makes a smooth, deeply flavored, and sweet tea, with an optional touch of baking soda to prevent cloudiness. INGREDIENTS 8 cups Filtered Water (divided) 4 Family-Sized Black Tea Bags (brands like Luzianne, Lipton, or Red Diamond are traditional) Alternatively, use 12–16 regular-sized black tea bags. (Luzianne is best!) 1 to 1 1/2 cups Raw Organic Cane Sugar (adjust to taste—1.5 cups is the traditional "Southern sweet") 1/8 teaspoon Baking Soda (optional, but highly recommended; neutralizes bitterness and ensures clarity) 8 cups Cold Water or Ice INSTRUCTIONS STEP 1: BREW THE CONCENTRATE Boil Water: In a saucepan, bring 4 cups of the filtered water to a rolling boil. Steep Tea: Remove the saucepan immediately from the heat. Add the tea bags and cover the pot. Let the tea steep for exactly 5 to 8 minutes . Do not steep longer than 10 minutes, as this can release tannins and make the tea bitter. Remove Bags: Remove the tea bags. Gently squeeze them against...