Recipe: Southern-Style Iced Tea

SOUTHERN-STYLE ICED TEA

"There are as many ways to brew iced tea as there are Southern grandmothers. I guess I'm biased toward this method, but it definitely makes good tea. The baking soda might seem strange, but it softens the natural tannins that cause an acid or bitter taste."

6 regular-size tea bags
1/8 teaspoon baking soda (a good pinch)
2 cups boiling water
6 cups cold water
Granulated sugar or other sweetener to taste (optional)

In a glass measuring cup or ceramic teapot large enough to accommodate the boiling water, place the tea bags and baking soda. Pour the boiling water over the tea bags. Cover and let steep for 15 minutes.

Remove the tea bags, being careful not to squeeze them (squeezing the bags will add bitterness).

Pour the concentrate into a 2-quart pitcher and add the cold water. Sweeten, if desired

Let cool, then chill and serve over ice.

Makes about 2 quarts
Source: Iced Tea: 50 Recipes for Refreshing Tisanes, Infusions, Coolers, and Spiked Teas by Fred Thompson