How To Make Sun Tea ☀️

As the sun is warming up and the days are getting longer, I'm back to making my favorite warm weather beverage I've been enjoying since I was a child. Sun tea! This centuries-old method of making tea uses the warmth of the sun to gently infuse water with your favorite tea leaves, creating a refreshing beverage.

Unlike traditional brewing methods that involve boiling water, sun tea relies on the gentle warmth of the sun to coax out the flavors of tea leaves. The process is incredibly simple:

1. Choose Your Tea: Start by selecting your favorite tea blend. Whether you prefer classic black tea like I do, fragrant green tea, or herbal infusions, the choice is yours. You can use loose leaf tea or tea bags, depending on your preference.

2. Pick Your Container: Next, select a clean container with a lid. Mason jars or pitchers work well for brewing sun tea, as they allow you to see the tea as it steeps.

3. Add Water: Fill your container with fresh, cold water. For best results, use filtered water to ensure a clean and pure flavor.

4. Infuse with Sunshine: Place your chosen tea bags or loose leaf tea directly into the water. Secure the lid on the container and position it in a sunny spot outdoors. A sunny windowsill, patio table, or balcony railing are all excellent locations for brewing sun tea.

5. Steep Gently: Allow the tea to steep in the sunlight for 4 to 8 hours, depending on your desired strength and the intensity of the sun. During this time, the water will gradually warm and become infused with the yummy flavors of the tea leaves.

6. Chill and Serve: Once the tea has reached your desired strength, remove it from the sunlight and discard the tea bags or strain out the loose tea leaves. Chill the tea in the refrigerator until cold, then serve over ice with slices of lemon, fresh mint leaves, or a drizzle of honey for added sweetness.

With its simple preparation and refreshing flavor, sun tea is like summer in a glass. Whether enjoyed on a leisurely afternoon picnic or as a refreshing pick-me-up after a day of outdoor adventures, sun tea invites us to slow down and savor the simple pleasures of life. So gather your favorite tea blend, bask in the warmth of the sun, and raise a glass to the joys of summertime sipping. Cheers to sun-kissed days and the simple delight of a well-brewed cup of tea!