When the setting sun is high in the sky, a hot cup of tea is not always the right thing. But even if the sun is shining, don't be cheated of a tea experience. Iced tea is perfect for those who want something refreshing - but at the same time want to explore the complex and rich aromas that tea contains.
And you know what the best part is? Homemade iced tea is actually super easy to make. Here we give you inspiration for how you can transform your favorite tea into a refreshing summer drink.
Which teas can be used for iced tea?
You can use all kinds of tea to brew your iced tea, whether it's green or black, white or rooibos – the most important thing is that you find a flavor that suits you.
To achieve the best result, it is important to brew a good loose tea so that it can get
lots of contact with the water and give the tea depth and power.
We recommend making the ice cream cold-brewed, i.e. letting it soak in cold water for 8-12 hours. In this way, you avoid the tea becoming bitter along the way.
When you have to choose the perfect tea for your iced tea, it's a bit like being a kid in a candy store – the possibilities are endless, and each tea has its own unique characteristics.
Black tea – the classic favourite
Black tea is known for its robust flavor and dark color and is a timeless classic for brewing iced tea. The tea has a strong, rich aroma that goes well with the sweetness from the sugar, and retains its characteristic flavor even when cooled.
Green tea – the fresh alternative
Green tea is a great option for those looking for a lighter and more subtle flavor experience. The tea has a mild taste, so you get a refreshing taste, perfect for summer.
White tea – the delicate choice
White tea is the most delicate of all tea varieties and is known for its soft and light taste. It is perfect for those who seek a more nuanced tea experience and want a lighter aroma.
Oolong tea – the best of both worlds
Oolong tea is an exciting hybrid between black and green tea and offers a unique flavor profile that is both rich and aromatic. With notes that can range from sweetness to an almost nutty depth, oolong is an exciting choice for the experimental iced brewer.
Herbal tea – caffeine-free enjoyment
For those who prefer a caffeine-free variety, herbal tea is an excellent choice. With its wide range of flavors, from the deep, earthy tones of rooibos to the bright, floral sweetness of chamomile, herbal tea opens up a world of possibilities.
How to brew your own homemade iced tea
- Use a bottle or jug that you can put in the fridge - preferably with a patent lid, but a good big sparkling water bottle is also good.
- You can use a tea filter or put the tea directly into the pot or bottle. How much tea you need depends on how strong you like your iced tea. But you should typically use a larger amount than when you brew it hot - we recommend 15 - 20 g per litres.
- Place the jug in the fridge and let it steep - possibly overnight, 8-12 hours gives the best result.
- If you like your tea slightly sweetened, you can make a sugar syrup from 1 part sugar and 1 part water. Boil it in a pan until it bubbles a little, and put the syrup in the fridge. Alternatively, you can sweeten your tea with a little acacia honey.
- When the ice cube has finished steeping, it is ready to be filtered and served. You can possibly flavor it with a little lemon juice.
- Serve it with ice cubes and a lemon wedge.