Sweet Tea and Summer Reads

I know, you're thinking, didn't you just talk about what you've been reading?  Why, yes I did.  But there are always  books to be read and discussed.  DISCUSSED being the key word.  We have a new podcast up over here.  You can also find it on iTunes, key word Deb and Beth.  We are discussing our summer beach reads, among other things.  Check it out....

One thing we do share is our love of ice tea/sweet tea.  I'm going to share a new recipe for making a refreshing sweet tea with mint and ginger. 

 
Start with green tea.  Beloved bought a box of green tea from Costco a while ago and we are set for life.  This actually is a very nice tea- even the tea bags are made of silk.

Brew the tea however you like.  In a pot, with a tea kettle, ice tea maker, I use my coffee maker. 

While the tea is brewing, make a simple syrup using equal parts sugar and water.  I was making enough for 2 gallons, so I used 3 cups sugar and 3 cups water.  Sweetness is purely up to your own tastes.  Into the simple syrup mixture, I throw in mint leaves and sliced ginger.

 
 
Keep stirring until sugar dissolves and then keep it on a simmer for about 15 minutes to let all the flavors infuse.  Once tea is brewed, mix in syrup portion (after straining mint and ginger, of course.)  Pour over ice and enjoy.  This truly is refreshing and a twist on your normal sweet tea.

Glass on the left is the green sweet tea and the right  is normal sweet tea. (just to show you the difference.)   

Be sure to check out my other blog where you can find a library of all our podcasts. 

 

Comments

[lam]

We got the Crystal Light green tea peach mango flavor for our graduation party and have all been in love with it all summer. My sister was having withdrawals at art fair because she couldn't find any of the little flavor packs to add to her water bottle and had forgotten to bring reserves from home. She asked me who started this crack anyway. I had to admit it was me. The green tea iced really is refreshing! I have to find some mint and try your version. I finally managed to eradicate all the mint from my garden! Who knew I still needed it.