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Fresh Peach Basil Iced Tea

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A bright, fruity, and subtly herbal iced tea naturally sweetened with honey or maple syrup, perfect for refreshing summer days.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 black tea bags (or green tea for lighter flavor)
  • 2 large ripe peaches (fresh or thawed frozen peaches)
  • About 10 fresh basil leaves (sweet basil or Thai basil)
  • 2–3 tablespoons honey or pure maple syrup (agave syrup as vegan alternative)
  • 6 cups (1.4 liters) filtered or spring water
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (optional but recommended)
  • Ice cubes for serving

Instructions

  1. Bring 6 cups (1.4 liters) of water to a boil. Remove from heat and add 4 black tea bags. Let steep for 5 minutes, then remove tea bags.
  2. While the tea steeps, pit and chop 2 large ripe peaches. Blend them until smooth, leaving some chunks if preferred.
  3. Add about 10 fresh basil leaves and 2-3 tablespoons of honey or maple syrup to the warm tea. Stir until the sweetener dissolves and basil releases aroma, about 3 minutes.
  4. Pour the peach puree into the tea mixture and stir thoroughly. Add fresh lemon juice (about 2 tablespoons) to brighten flavors and adjust sweetness if needed.
  5. Transfer the tea to a pitcher and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to chill and meld flavors. Use ice cubes to speed cooling if desired.
  6. Serve over ice cubes, garnished with a fresh basil leaf or thin peach slice. Optionally strain through a fine mesh sieve for clearer tea.

Notes

Do not over-steep tea to avoid bitterness. Use ripe peaches for best flavor. Add basil to warm tea, not boiling water, to preserve flavor. Sweeten gradually to balance flavors. Chill tea well for best taste. For fizz, top with sparkling water before serving. Can substitute black tea with green or herbal teas for variation.

Nutrition

Keywords: iced tea, peach iced tea, basil iced tea, naturally sweetened, summer drink, refreshing beverage, herbal iced tea

Find it online: https://elvafood.com/fresh-peach-basil-iced-tea-recipe-easy-naturally-sweetened-drink/