Healthy AND Refreshing Iced Tea!

Tea is a cold-month favourite, but most people turn to the “classic” drinks of spring and summer once the warm weather hits, including pre-packaged sodas, juices, and iced teas. What many don’t realize is that these drinks are typically loaded with sweeteners, and indulging in a glass or two a day is usually equal to one full day’s amount of recommended sugar. Aside from the unpleasant weight-gain that follows sugar gorging, other side-effects such as migraine headaches and intestinal issues are linked to over-consumption of sugar. So what should you turn to when you’ve had too much ice water, don’t want the sugary drinks of summers past, but need some flavour in your life? …

Water can quickly turn from refreshing to bland when trying to stay hydrated in summer!

… Any tea can be iced. It’s true. And the most simple method is often to make a large quantity and store it, so that your favourite drink is on-hand and convenient. What you’ll need:

• A jug
• An infuser (Any old jug and infuser will do, but if you’re committed to iced teas the way we are, we suggest something made specifically for loose-leaf iced teas. We offer Bodum® and Takeya® varieties in-store)
• 2-3 grams of tea per serving (When making large quantities, 1 teaspoon per 6 ounces. If you’re doing a two-litre jug, that means you’ll need 11 teaspoons or 22-33 grams. )
• Cold water

Put the cold water and tea-filled infuser in the jug and let it sit in the fridge overnight. Voila! Your favourite iced tea awaits you in the morning.

Iced tea can be made in all quantities and varieties!

You can make individual cups of iced tea, too. Here is our classic Citrus Grove recipe for a single serving:

• 3 teaspoons loose leaf tea
• 6 oz hot water
• 6 oz ice cubes
• Lemon, fruit or herbs to taste

Infuse the tea in the hot water, add ice cubes and enjoy!

If you’re interested in something a bit sweet, loose-leaf iced tea is still a better option. Simply add a bit of honey or sugar syrup (a bit of sugar mixed with a bit of hot water) to your cup. This way, you know exactly how much sugar you’re consuming with each glass!