Are you ready to transform an ordinary summer day into an extraordinary flavor experience? Imagine a cool, sweet beverage that captures the essence of ripe summer peaches and smooth black tea, promising to transport you to a Southern porch with just one sip. This Neely's Peach Iced Tea isn't just a drink—it's a refreshing journey that blends classic Southern hospitality with a burst of fruity goodness that will have your guests begging for the recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 6 cups water
- 4 black tea bags
- 2 ripe peaches, sliced
- 1/2 cup sugar
- Ice cubes
- Mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 6 cups of water, 4 black tea bags, 2 ripe peaches, 1/2 cup of sugar, ice cubes, and mint leaves for garnish if desired.
- In a medium-sized pot, bring 6 cups of water to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once the water reaches a rolling boil, remove the pot from heat and add the 4 black tea bags. Allow the tea to steep for about 5 to 7 minutes, depending on how strong you prefer your tea.
- While the tea is steeping, wash the ripe peaches thoroughly. Slice the peaches into thin wedges, discarding the pit.
- After the tea has steeped to your liking, remove the tea bags and stir in 1/2 cup of sugar until fully dissolved. If you prefer a sweeter tea, you can adjust the amount of sugar to taste.
- Next, add the sliced peaches to the sweetened tea mixture. Allow the peaches to steep in the tea for an additional 5 minutes to infuse their flavor.
- After the peaches have steeped, let the tea cool to room temperature. Once cooled, transfer the tea to a pitcher and refrigerate until chilled, about 1 to 2 hours.
- To serve, fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the chilled peach iced tea over the ice. Make sure to include some of the peach slices in each glass for added flavor and presentation.
- If desired, garnish each glass with fresh mint leaves for a refreshing touch.
- Enjoy your homemade Neely's Peach Iced Tea, perfect for a warm day or any gathering!
Tips
- Choose Perfectly Ripe Peaches: Select peaches that are fragrant and slightly soft to the touch for maximum flavor infusion.
- Steep Tea Strategically: Don't over-steep your tea bags, as this can make the tea bitter. 5-7 minutes is the sweet spot for a smooth flavor.
- Customize Your Sweetness: Feel free to adjust sugar levels to suit your taste preferences. You can even substitute with honey or agave for a different twist.
- Chill Thoroughly: For the most refreshing experience, ensure your tea is well-chilled before serving.
- Presentation Matters: Garnish with fresh mint leaves and peach slices to elevate the visual appeal and add an extra layer of flavor.
- Make Ahead: This tea can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days, making it perfect for meal prep or entertaining.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 50kcal
Carbohydrates: 13g
Protein: 0g
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
