As an herbalist, one of my favorite summer activities is brewing sun tea. There’s something so calming and magical about the entire process, from watching the herbs and tea leaves dance in and sparkle in the sunlight to sipping your refreshing concoction on a hot day. Plus, it’s soo easy! Let’s talk all things sun tea so you can brew your own today!

What is sun tea and how does it differ from hot and iced tea?

Sun tea is a refreshing and nostalgic beverage that is brewed using the heat of the sun instead of boiling water. This slow brewing method allows the flavors of the tea to gently infuse into the water, creating a smoother and more delicate taste compared to traditional hot tea.

Unlike hot tea, which is brewed quickly with hot water, and iced tea, which is typically made by brewing hot tea and then chilling it, sun tea is a more relaxed and hands-off approach to making tea. By allowing the tea to steep in the sun for several hours, the flavors have time to develop slowly and naturally, resulting in a milder and more subtle taste.

One of the main differences between sun tea and hot tea is the temperature at which the tea is brewed. Hot tea is brewed with boiling water, which extracts the flavors quickly and results in a more intense flavor profile. Sun tea, on the other hand, is brewed with cool or room temperature water and allowed to steep in the sun, creating a more gentle and nuanced flavor.

It differs from iced tea because it is brewed using the heat of the sun instead of hot water. While iced tea is typically made by brewing hot tea and then chilling it, sun tea is brewed entirely using the sun’s heat, giving it a unique and refreshing taste.

Choosing the right container for making sun tea

When it comes to making sun tea, choosing the right container is essential to ensuring a safe and delicious end result. While there are many options available, it is best to opt for a glass container to avoid any potential leaching of chemicals from plastic.

A simple glass Mason jar will do the trick. Glass pitchers or any other glass container will work just fine too for brewing sun tea. Glass teapots with infusers are also a great option for a mess-free sun tea prep, as long as you adjust your amounts based on the capacity of your vessel. Personally, I love to use a large glass jar like this one or this one, depending on how much tea you want to brew at once.

It is important to steer clear of plastic containers when making sun tea, as chemicals from the plastic can potentially leach into the tea while it steeps. To ensure the safety and quality of your sun tea, opt for a glass container with a metal screw-top lid or a glass lid, as metal and glass attract heat. (Psst… learn more about the detrimental impact of chemicals on women’s health and how to avoid them here.)

If you are unable to find a gallon-sized glass jar, don’t worry – any recycled juice or food jar, a large Mason jar, or any other securely closable glass jar will work perfectly for making sun tea. The key is to choose a container that is made of glass to ensure the best flavor and avoid any potential chemical leaching.

Selecting the type of tea you want to use

While stereotypical Southern iced tea is often made with black tea blends, there are endless possibilities when it comes to choosing the type of tea for your sun tea. Experiment with different blends and flavors to find the perfect combination that suits your taste preferences.

If you prefer a lighter tea, green tea blends like jasmine green tea or fruity teas can create a refreshing and flavorful sun tea. For a stronger and bolder flavor, black tea blends like Irish Breakfast Tea can be a great choice.

If you prefer to avoid caffeine, herbal teas work wonderfully. Some of my favorites include hibiscus tea, mint leaves, and this yummy blend that’s great during pregnancy and postpartum.

Don’t be afraid to mix and match different tea blends to create a unique and delicious blend, being sure to research any herbs you are unfamiliar with to make sure they are right for you. Experiment with various flavors and combinations until you find the perfect recipe that suits your taste buds. Enjoy the process of discovering new and exciting tea blends for your homemade sun tea creation.

How long to brew your sun tea

When making sun tea, the brewing time can vary depending on the temperature and intensity of the sun. The general guideline is to let the tea steep in the sun for about 4 hours, or until the shade overtakes the mason jar. This allows the tea to infuse with the water and develop a rich and bold flavor.

However, the brewing time can be adjusted based on personal preference. If you prefer a stronger tea, you can let it steep for a longer period of time. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter tea, you can remove the tea bags earlier.

It is important to note that once you are happy with the concentration of the tea, be sure to remove the tea bags to prevent the tea from becoming too bitter. After brewing, chill the sun tea in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving. I like to pour the tea through a mesh strainer if I’m using loose leaf tea and transfer it into glass pitchers like these.

Can sun tea go bad?

Like any food or beverage, sun tea can go bad if not properly stored and handled. Always refrigerate any leftover tea and consume it within 1-3 days after brewing. Leaving sun tea out at room temperature can cause it to develop off flavors and potentially harmful bacteria. It is important to discard any leftover tea that has been sitting out for more than a couple of days.

Additionally, if you choose to sweeten your sun tea with sugar or honey, make sure to add it after the tea has finished brewing. This will help prevent the growth of bacteria and mold in the sweetened tea.

Tips for sweetening and flavoring your sun tea

When it comes to sweetening and flavoring your sun tea, there are plenty of healthy ingredients you can use to enhance your tea. Here are some tips to help you sweeten and flavor your sun tea with nutritious ingredients:

1. Honey: Honey is a natural sweetener that adds a touch of sweetness without the need for refined sugar. It also offers various health benefits, such as providing antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
2. Fresh fruits: Adding fresh fruits like lemon slices, orange, berries, or peaches can enhance the flavor and provide a natural sweetness. Fruits are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making them a healthy addition to your drink.
3. Mint leaves: Fresh mint leaves can add a refreshing and cooling flavor. Mint also aids in digestion and can help soothe an upset stomach.
4. Cinnamon: Sprinkling a bit of cinnamon in your sun tea can add warmth and a hint of spice. Cinnamon is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making it a healthy addition to your drink.
5. Ginger: Fresh ginger can add a spicy kick to your sun tea while providing numerous health benefits. Ginger is known for its anti-nausea, anti-inflammatory, and immune-boosting properties.

FAQ

Can you use loose tea leaves for sun tea?

Yes! In fact, using loose tea leaves can often result in a richer and more flavorful tea compared to tea bags. When making sun tea with loose tea leaves, simply follow the same steps outlined for using tea bags, but instead of using a tea bag, add 2-3 teaspoons of loose tea leaves per every 8 ounces of water.

The key to using loose tea leaves for sun tea is to make sure you have a way to strain the leaves out after the steeping process is complete. I simply pour mine through a fine mesh strainer.

How do you store leftover sun tea?

After you have enjoyed a delicious glass of sun tea, you may find yourself with some leftover tea that you want to save for later. Storing leftovers is simple. Transfer any remaining tea into an airtight container and refrigerate. Glass Mason jars, glass pitchers, or any other glass container will work well.

It is important to note that leftover sun tea should be consumed within 1-3 days after it has been steeped. This will ensure that the tea remains fresh and safe to drink.

Can you make sun tea with cold water?

Yes, you can make sun tea with cold water. In fact, it is traditionally made by steeping tea leaves in cold water and allowing the heat of the sun to slowly infuse the flavors into the water. Using cold water results in a milder and less bitter taste compared to using hot water.

To make sun tea with cold water, simply place the tea bags or loose tea leaves in a jar of cold water and place it in direct sunlight for several hours. The sun’s heat will gently infuse the tea into the water, creating a refreshing and light beverage perfect for warm summer days.

Cooling Hibiscus Sun Tea

Now that you know how simple it is to brew a batch of sun tea, try my absolute favorite recipe: Cooling Hibiscus Sun Tea. It is perfectly tart and refreshing!