I really like the idea of sun tea. The flavors are different than when you make the tea with boiling water, a little softer and more nuanced. It's appealing in the summer when their is plenty of summer sun, and is a great excuse not to turn on the stove. Last but definitely not least it is a great excuse to sit around with friends on the porch drinking iced tea. Right?Unfortunately, I have to admit that sun tea isn't quite as effortless and forgiving as it sounds. First of all some types of tea aren't very good for sunning. Like the kind I made a couple of weeks ago. The flavor just didn't work, it really needed the extra oomph that comes from using hot water.
Also, apparently the process of making sun tea provides the perfect environment for growing potentially harmful bacteria. Ick. Refrigerator tea is recommended instead, or you can do as I have been doing which is just make a batch of hot tea and then either cool it in the refrigerator or chill it by pouring it over a bunch of ice.
Oh well, on the upside I think that my new bush tea might make some pretty fantastic iced tea.
Chilled Tea
Either method you choose you want a ratio of roughly 1 tsp tea to 1 cup of water, or 4-6 tea bags for a pitcher of water. (Also, you want to wash your vessel as well as possible in hot soapy water to sanitize it.)
Honey, sugar, lemon and mint sprigs or even a little milk are your choice, as is the variety of tea.
The options are endless. Unfortunately, the refreshment is temporary.
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