Refreshing Iced Mint Tea
The warmer weather always makes me start looking for cool refreshing drinks, especially ones that are easy to make (double-bonus if I can get use out of our garden). This iced mint tea recipe definitely falls into those categories ( refreshing & easy).
I started drinking hot mint tea made from fresh leaves years ago in Amsterdam and fell in love with the smell and super fresh taste. Once we got a backyard here in Brooklyn, I began growing a number of different types of mint (Who knew there were so many?) and looking for more uses. This recipe is inspired by the wonderful tea I drank all those years ago, but is more appropriate for this warm weather. I use a variety of mint types (This summer it’s chocolate, orange, pineapple, and peppermint), but any store bought mint will do just fine.
Gardener’s Note: Mint is an easy herb to grow. If you’re looking for an easy plant to care for that thrives in or outdoors in a pot or the ground, this is a good one. Just be sure to contain it if you plant it in the ground as it will take up as much space as you allow it.
ICED MINT TEA
WHAT YOU’LL NEED:
- 1 Cup Mint Leaves (Packed tightly)
- 6 Cups Boiling Water
1. Put the leaves in a heat proof pot or bowl that’s big enough to hold the 6 cups of water.
2. Pour the water in over the leaves making sure that all of the leaves are submerged in the water.
3. Let the mint steep for about 10-15 min or until the water has a nice vibrant green color.
4. Remove the leaves. (If you want any hot mint tea, which is also really good, now is the time to grab some.
5. I tend to pour the tea into smaller containers, usually Mason jars, for storage in the fridge. If you do, let the tea cool for a bit before loading those hot jars into the cold fridge (I’ve had one break before from the temperature change).
Once the mint tea is chilled, pour some in a glass and add a mint sprig. It’s quite refreshing served on its own or with some simple syrup or honey.
If you’re looking for a cool drink that’s a bit different than the typical iced teas, I hope you’ll give this one a try.
