19 Good Old Southern Sweet Iced Tea Recipe Elevate Your Taste Buds!
Published on: Apr 1, 2024
For many Southerners, a glass of sweet iced tea is more than just a refreshing beverage - it's a taste of home, a symbol of hospitality, and a tradition that has been passed down for generations. But while the concept of sweet tea may seem simple, its execution is an art form that requires the perfect balance of flavors and techniques. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the classic Southern sweet iced tea recipe and explore its rich history and cultural significance. So grab your favorite tea pitcher and get ready to learn the secrets to making the perfect glass of sweet tea.
Nothing says "summer" in the South like a tall glass of sweet iced tea. This classic beverage is a staple at backyard barbecues, family reunions, and picnics. But why settle for plain old iced tea when you can elevate it with sweet, juicy strawberries? This Southern strawberry sweet iced tea recipe is a must-try for any tea lover.
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Perfect Southern Sweet Iced Tea {Never Bitter}
Main Ingredients: Tea Bags, Boiling Water, Sugar, Cold Water, Baking
One of the secrets to making perfect Southern sweet iced tea is to never let it get bitter. This can happen if the tea is steeped for too long or if the water is too hot. To avoid any bitterness, follow this recipe for the perfect Southern sweet iced tea that will have your taste buds singing.
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Old Fashioned Southern Sweet Potato Pie
Main Ingredients: Butter, Light Brown Sugar, Light Karo Syrup, Eggs
Southern sweet potato pie is a classic dessert that is loved by many. This old fashioned recipe brings together the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, making it the perfect ending to any Southern meal. Serve it warm with a dollop of whipped cream for a truly indulgent experience.
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Southern Fresh Peach Iced Tea
Main Ingredients: Fresh Peaches, Water, Granulated Sugar, Lemon, Tea Bags
Peaches are a quintessential summer fruit in the South, and this recipe combines them with sweet iced tea for a refreshing and flavorful drink. The natural sweetness of ripe peaches pairs perfectly with the subtle bitterness of black tea, creating a delicious and unique beverage.
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Southern Mint Iced Tea Gelato
Main Ingredients: Milk, Heavy Cream, Egg Yolks, Sugar, Mint Sprigs
When life gives you mint iced tea, turn it into gelato! This Southern mint iced tea gelato is a refreshing and creamy treat that is perfect for hot summer days. The combination of cool mint and sweet tea is a match made in heaven, and the gelato texture makes it even more irresistible.
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Southern Cornbread – Southern Skillet Cornbread
Main Ingredients: Butter, Yellow Cornmeal, Flour, Baking Soda, Salt
Cornbread is a staple in Southern cuisine, and this recipe for Southern skillet cornbread is a must-try. The crispy edges and soft, fluffy center make this cornbread the perfect side dish for any meal. Plus, it's cooked in a cast iron skillet, which gives it an extra boost of Southern flavor.
If you prefer a more traditional approach to cornbread, this old fashioned Southern cornbread recipe is for you. Made with buttermilk and cooked in a hot cast iron skillet, this cornbread has a crispy crust and a moist, tender inside. Serve it with a pat of butter and a drizzle of honey for a truly authentic Southern experience.
Smothered chicken is a classic Southern comfort food dish that is sure to satisfy. This recipe uses a combination of chicken thighs and legs, which are cooked in a rich gravy until they are fall-off-the-bone tender. Serve it over rice or with a side of biscuits for a hearty and delicious meal that will warm your soul.
Collard greens are a staple in Southern cooking, and this recipe for Southern collard greens is a must-try. The greens are cooked in a flavorful broth with smoked turkey and bacon, giving them a rich and smoky flavor. Serve them as a side dish or add some cornbread for a hearty vegetarian meal.
Cornbread dressing is a must-have side dish at any Southern holiday meal. This recipe uses a combination of homemade cornbread and store-bought biscuits for the perfect texture. The addition of sage and thyme gives it a subtle, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with turkey and gravy.
Oxtails may not be the most common cut of meat, but in Southern cuisine, they are a delicacy. This recipe for Southern smothered oxtails elevates this humble cut of meat with a rich gravy and flavorful seasonings. Serve it over rice or with a side of collard greens for a hearty and delicious meal.
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Classic Flaky Southern Biscuits
Main Ingredients: Flour, Whole Milk, Butter, Sugar, Baking Powder, Salt
No Southern meal is complete without a basket of warm, flaky biscuits. This recipe for classic Southern biscuits will have you feeling like a true Southerner in no time. The key to achieving the perfect texture is to handle the dough gently and not overwork it. Serve these biscuits with butter and your favorite jam for a delicious breakfast or snack.
Mac and cheese is a beloved comfort food dish, and this Southern baked mac and cheese takes it to the next level. Made with a blend of cheeses and a crunchy breadcrumb topping, this mac and cheese is creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-delicious. Serve it as a side dish or add some diced ham for a hearty main course.
If you're looking for a more traditional Southern mac and cheese recipe, this one is for you. Made with a rich and creamy cheese sauce and topped with buttery breadcrumbs, this baked mac and cheese is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Serve it as a side dish or add some diced bacon for a delicious twist.
Pecan pie is a classic Southern dessert, and these pecan pie bars are a delicious and easy alternative. The pecan filling is sandwiched between a buttery shortbread crust, making these bars a perfect sweet treat for any occasion. Serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
Collard greens are a staple in Southern cuisine, and this classic recipe will show you how to make them perfectly every time. The greens are cooked low and slow with smoked turkey and bacon, giving them a rich and smoky flavor. Serve them as a side dish or add some cornbread for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Peach cobbler is a classic Southern dessert that is loved by many. This recipe takes it up a notch by using fresh, juicy peaches and a crumbly topping that is sure to make your mouth water. Serve it warm with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a truly indulgent experience.
Pimento cheese is a Southern staple that can be used as a dip, spread, or even as a topping for burgers and sandwiches. This recipe combines sharp cheddar cheese, cream cheese, and pimentos for a creamy and flavorful spread that is perfect for any occasion. Serve it with crackers or as a condiment for a delicious addition to any meal.
Cabbage may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Southern cuisine, but this recipe will change that. The cabbage is cooked low and slow with bacon, giving it a rich and smoky flavor. Serve it as a side dish or add some sausage for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Last but not least, we have another delicious cornbread recipe that is sure to become a family favorite. This Southern cornbread is made with a combination of cornmeal and all-purpose flour, giving it the perfect texture. Serve it warm with butter and honey for a simple yet delicious side dish.
The Origins of Sweet Iced Tea
The Influence of African and European Cultures
The roots of sweet tea can be traced back to the 19th century when tea became a popular beverage in the American South. However, the origins of sweet tea itself can be attributed to the blending of African and European cultures. The African tradition of sweetening tea with sugar and the British tradition of serving iced tea on a hot day came together to create the beloved sweet iced tea we know today.
The Rise of Sweet Tea in the South
The popularity of sweet tea in the South can also be attributed to the climate. The hot and humid weather made iced beverages a necessity, and the abundance of sugar from the region's sugarcane plantations made it easy and affordable to sweeten tea. As a result, sweet tea became a staple in Southern households and a symbol of hospitality and comfort.
The Perfect Sweet Iced Tea Recipe
The Ingredients
The key to making a perfect glass of sweet tea is using high-quality ingredients. Start with freshly brewed tea, preferably a black tea like English breakfast or orange pekoe. Sugar is also essential, and while you can adjust the amount to your liking, a good rule of thumb is one cup of sugar for every gallon of tea. You will also need water and ice.
The Method
To make sweet tea, begin by boiling four cups of water and steeping four tea bags in it for about five minutes. Remove the tea bags and add one cup of sugar, stirring until it dissolves. Next, add four cups of cold water and transfer the tea to a pitcher with ice. Let it chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour, and then serve over ice. For an extra touch of flavor, you can also add lemon slices or fresh herbs like mint or basil.
In Conclusion
Sweet iced tea is not just a drink; it's a cultural tradition that has been cherished by Southerners for centuries. Whether enjoyed on a hot summer day or served alongside a plate of homemade biscuits, sweet tea is a symbol of Southern hospitality and a taste of home. With this classic Southern sweet iced tea recipe, you can bring a little taste of the South into your own home and experience the perfect blend of history, culture, and flavor.
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