Sun tea is a naturally delicious way to make and enjoy your favorite teas. To make this delicious drink all you need is tea bags, water, a container, and, of course, the sun. Once you combine these ingredients together, the tea essentially makes itself. There is no hard work necessary, and that’s what I love about it!
In this article you'll find:
How Do You Make Sun Tea?
This has been a favorite of mine for many years and it’s so easy to make that you’ll only need to learn how to make it once before you become an expert yourself. Getting started is easy, so don’t be shy, just jump right in!
1. Grab a glass container with a lid –
As long as your container is made with clear glass and has a lid to seal it, you’re good to go. The size of the container is also completely up to you. My favorite is a large mason jar from the cabinet.
2. Fill the container with water –
I always prefer to use purified water, as it contains fewer minerals and tends to taste a little better, however, any drinking water you have will work just fine. I also recommend using room temperature as it works best for this process.
3. Add tea bags to the container –
Any tea bags will work fine, so make sure you pick your favorite to steep in the sun! Some of my favorites include black tea, raspberry, and any iced tea blends. Generally, you’ll want to use about 8 bags per gallon.
4. Seal the lid and place the container in the sun –
Once you seal the lid, you’ll want to find a warm sunny spot for the tea to steep in for a few hours, this can be in a sunny window or outside. I usually leave mine outside for about 2 – 3 hours. After it is done steeping, the last step is to serve and enjoy it!
Can You Make Sun Tea In A Plastic Container?
While it is admirable to want to use what you have available, I personally wouldn’t recommend using any plastic containers for making it, or anything else you want to leave in the sun for a while. Plastic will absorb the sun’s rays instead of shining through and will change the flavor of the tea.
How To Make Sun Tea In The Winter
Making it in the winter is just as easy as making it during the summer. The only thing that’s different is that the sun’s rays are generally not as strong so you’ll need to steep it longer. I usually double the time for steeping during this season. I also keep the container inside to steep at a window since temperatures are usually too cold outside.
How To Make Sun Tea With Mint
Making it with mint is one of my favorites as it freshens up the flavor and makes it look more natural. To add mint to your recipe, simply grab some fresh mint from the store or garden and place it in the container with the tea bags to steep. A little goes a long way so use it sparingly unless you want a strong minty flavor.
How To Make Sun Tea Outside
In my opinion, it’s truly the best when it’s brewed outside and it is always my go-to choice. To make it outside simply pick your favorite spot to place it in. The tea will steep faster if you place it in direct sun, so if you want it to steep longer simply place it in filtered light instead.
How To Make Sun Tea Sweet
If you want it to have a sweeter flavor, you can make a syrup to add to it after it is done steeping. Simply mix equal parts of water to sugar and cook it in a pan until the sugar is dissolved. Then stir it in once it is ready to drink.
Personally, I love all things maple so I like to add natural maple syrup to mine.
Summary
Sun tea is always easy and fun to make. As long as you have a glass container, water, and tea bags, the sun will happily do the rest. I always enjoy trying new recipes every time I make it and I hope you will find enjoyment in doing the same as well.
