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Amazing Mint Julep Sweet Tea: 8 Chilling Steps

Mint Julep Sweet Tea

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Enjoy a refreshing Mint Julep Sweet Tea, a perfect Southern summer sipper. This recipe combines the bright flavor of fresh mint with classic sweet tea for an instantly cooling drink.

Ingredients

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  • 4 cups strong brewed black tea, chilled
  • 4 cups cold water
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup fresh mint leaves, lightly packed, plus extra for garnish
  • 1/2 cup bourbon (optional)
  • Ice

Instructions

  1. Make a simple syrup: Combine sugar and 1 cup of water in a saucepan. Heat gently, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely. Remove from heat.
  2. Steep the mint: Add the 1 cup of mint leaves to the hot simple syrup. Let it steep for 30 minutes.
  3. Strain the syrup: Remove the mint leaves from the syrup, pressing gently to extract flavor. Discard the leaves.
  4. Combine tea and syrup: In a large pitcher, mix the chilled brewed tea, the remaining 3 cups of cold water, and the mint simple syrup. Stir well.
  5. Add bourbon (if using): Stir in the bourbon until mixed.
  6. Chill: Refrigerate the tea mixture for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
  7. Serve: Fill tall glasses with ice. Pour the sweet tea over the ice. Garnish each glass with a fresh sprig of mint. Gently slap the mint against your hand before placing it in the glass to release the aroma.

Notes

  • Brew your black tea strongly; it needs to stand up to the sugar and mint.
  • Adjust the amount of simple syrup to fit your preferred sweetness level.
  • For a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the bourbon.
  • Fresh mint makes a big difference; use the best you can find.

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