Ingredients
- 10 ¾ cups water, divided
- 1 cup white sugar
- 6 tea bags
- ice, as needed
- 8 slices lemon
- 8 sprigs fresh mint
Ingredient Image
Why This Recipe Is So Delicious
This refreshing drink is perfect for hot days when you want something cool without waiting forever. It’s simple to make, uses just a few ingredients, and the Instant Pot speeds up the brewing process. Plus, you can easily customize the sweetness and flavors to your liking.
Chef's Cooking Tips
- Use good quality tea bags or loose leaf tea for the best flavor.
- Adjust the steeping time depending on how strong you like your tea.
- Add a slice of lemon or fresh mint leaves while steeping for extra freshness.
- Adjust the steeping time depending on how strong you like your tea.
- Add a slice of lemon or fresh mint leaves while steeping for extra freshness.
Step 1
Pour 5 cups of water into your Instant Pot and add the sugar along with the tea bags. Close the lid and set the pot to high pressure for 5 minutes. It will take about 10 to 15 minutes for the pressure to build up before the timer starts.
Step 2
Once the cooking time is up, let the pressure release naturally for about 15 minutes. After that, carefully use the quick-release to let out any remaining pressure before opening the lid.
Step 3
Take out the tea bags and give them a good squeeze to get all the flavor out. Pour the brewed tea into a pitcher, add the rest of the water, and give it a stir. Serve your iced tea over ice with a few lemon slices and some fresh mint for a refreshing touch.
Best Foods To Serve With This
Serve your iced tea over plenty of ice cubes to keep it chilled. Garnish with lemon wedges, fresh mint, or a few berries for a pretty touch. It pairs wonderfully with light snacks like sandwiches or fruit salads.
How To Store For Later
Store the iced tea in a clean, airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Give it a quick stir before serving, and avoid leaving it out at room temperature for long periods.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of tea for this recipe?
Yes, you can use black, green, or herbal tea bags depending on your preference.
How sweet will the tea be with 1 cup of sugar?
It will be moderately sweet, but you can adjust the sugar amount to taste.
Can I skip the natural pressure release and do a quick release instead?
It’s best to do the natural release for 15 minutes to avoid bitterness and over-extraction.
How long can I store the iced tea in the fridge?
The tea will stay fresh for up to 5 days when refrigerated in a sealed container.
Can I make this recipe without an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can brew the tea on the stove, but it will take longer to steep.
Is it necessary to squeeze the tea bags after cooking?
Yes, squeezing helps extract maximum flavor from the tea bags.
Can I add other flavors besides lemon and mint?
Absolutely, try adding fruits like berries or herbs like basil for variety.
How much ice should I add when serving?
Add ice to your glass as desired to chill the tea without diluting it too much.
