Southern Peach Tea (Print Version)

A refreshing summer drink combining sweet tea with fresh peaches, perfect for cooling off on hot days.

# Ingredients:

01 - 4 large ripe peaches, divided
02 - 6 - 8 regular-size black tea bags
03 - 2 cups boiling water
04 - ½ - 1 cup granulated sugar, or to taste
05 - ½ cup lemon juice
06 - 6 cups cold water
07 - pinch of baking soda (optional)
08 - ice

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Halve two of the peaches and remove the pits. Slice the peaches into wedges. Place the peach wedges in a single layer on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet and freeze until solid, at least 4 hours.
02 - Place the tea bags in the boiling water. Cover and steep for 10 minutes. Remove the tea bags and discard them.
03 - Stir the sugar into the hot tea until dissolved. Allow the mixture to cool slightly.
04 - Peel the remaining two peaches and remove the pits. Roughly chop the peaches and place them in a blender or food processor. Add lemon juice. Cover and blend until smooth.
05 - Strain the peach mixture through a fine sieve into a bowl. Gently press against the pulp to extract liquid. Discard or save the pulp for another use.
06 - In a pitcher, combine the strained peach juice, tea, cold water, and baking soda (if using). Mix well.
07 - Refrigerate the tea mixture until cold.
08 - Serve in individual glasses with ice and frozen peach wedges, if desired.

# Additional Notes:

01 - This refreshingly delicious Southern Peach Tea is best consumed within 2-3 days.
02 - Try adding ginger or mint for a unique and refreshing twist on the classic flavor.
03 - Use black tea leaves for a stronger taste or green tea leaves for a lighter flavor.
04 - Southern Peach Tea works as a base for cocktails, desserts, or as a marinade for grilled meats.