Southern Sweet Iced Tea

Sweet Tea is one of my favorite summer drinks. It's easy to make, but there are a few secrets to making it really delicious. First, always use Luzianne Iced Tea bags. Second, do not forget to add the baking soda! It cuts the bitterness and makes the tea smooth. Third, do not squeeze or wring out the tea bags when removing them.

My husband lived in North Carolina for 5 years and grew to love Sweet Tea as most people who live in the South do. After doubting that my Sweet Tea would live up to his expectations, he was impressed with this recipe the first time I made it for him when we started dating, so it's the only recipe I make! You can adjust the amount of sugar if you don't like it overly sweet - start with 1/3 cup and add more until it's to your liking. I've found that 1 cup of sugar (or a little more) for a 2-quart pitcher works well for us.

Southern Sweet Iced Tea

6 regular size or 2 family size Luzianne Iced Tea bags

1/8 teaspoon baking soda

2 cups boiling water

1 cup sugar

6 cups cold water

Boil 2 cups of water.

In a large glass measuring cup, place the tea bags and add the baking soda.

Pour the boiling water over the tea bags. Cover and steep for 15 minutes.

Take out the tea bags and do not squeeze them.

Pour the tea mixture into a 2-quart pitcher; add the sugar and stir until the sugar is dissolved. Add in the cold water.

Let cool; chill in the refrigerator and serve over ice.

Photos by JoJo