Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Natural Sweetness: Utilizing fresh mangoes provides a natural sweetness, reducing the need for added sugars.
- Simple Preparation: With straightforward steps, you can easily prepare this delicious iced tea at home.
- Customizable: Adjust the sweetness and strength to suit your personal taste preferences.
Ingredients
- 2 large ripe mangoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 10 black or green tea bags
- 6 cups water
- Ice cubes
- Lemon or lime slices and fresh mint for garnish (optional)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Mango Syrup:
- In a saucepan, combine the diced mangoes, 1 cup of water, and sugar.
- Heat on low until the sugar dissolves, then increase to medium-high heat.
- Bring to a high simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, occasionally mashing the mango pieces.
- Remove from heat and allow to cool to room temperature.
- Strain through a fine mesh strainer to remove solids.
- Bottle and refrigerate for up to a week.
- Brew the Tea:
- Bring 6 cups of water to a boil.
- Add the tea bags to the boiling water.
- Boil for 1 minute, then remove from heat.
- Allow to steep and cool slightly for 5 minutes.
- Fill a half-gallon pitcher with ice cubes.
- Pour the tea over the ice.
- Assemble the Iced Tea:
- Fill a glass with ice cubes.
- Add about 4 tablespoons of mango syrup into the glass.
- Fill with freshly brewed tea and stir.
- Garnish with lemon or lime slices and a sprig of mint if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Approximately 8 servings
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Variations
- Mango Mint Iced Tea: Add fresh mint leaves to the mangoes while pureeing and follow the rest of the recipe.
- Mango Raspberry Iced Tea: Muddle fresh raspberries and add them to the ice-filled glass before pouring the iced tea.
- Mango Strawberry Iced Tea: Muddle fresh strawberries and add them to the serving glass, then pour chilled mango tea over it. Stir and enjoy!
- Mango Peach Iced Tea: Add peach puree or peach nectar to the tea base along with the mango puree.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: This homemade mango sweet tea tastes best when served fresh. However, you can store leftovers in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating: Serve chilled; no reheating necessary.
FAQs
What type of tea works best for Mango Iced Tea?
Black tea provides a strong base that pairs well with mango, but you can experiment with green or white tea for a lighter flavor.
Can I use store-bought mango juice instead of fresh mangoes?
Yes, you can use store-bought mango juice, but using fresh mangoes gives a more natural and robust flavor.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the iced tea?
You can adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of mango syrup added to the tea. Taste and modify according to your preference.
Is it necessary to strain the mango syrup?
Straining the mango syrup ensures a smooth texture in your iced tea, but if you prefer a pulpier drink, you can skip this step.
Can I make this iced tea caffeine-free?
Yes, you can use caffeine-free herbal teas as a base to make a caffeine-free version of this iced tea.
How long does the mango syrup last?
The mango syrup can be refrigerated and stored for up to a week.
Can I add other fruits to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment by adding fruits like peaches, strawberries, or raspberries to create your own unique flavor combinations.
What’s the best way to serve Mango Iced Tea at a party?
Prepare a large batch and serve it in a pitcher filled with ice. Provide garnishes like lemon slices and mint leaves for guests to customize their drinks.
Can I use frozen mangoes?
Yes, frozen mangoes can be used. Thaw them before pureeing to achieve the best consistency.
How can I make a spiked version of Mango Iced Tea?
To make a spiked version, add an ounce of rum, whisky, tequila, or vodka to each glass of iced tea and stir well.
Conclusion
Mango Iced Tea is a delightful and versatile beverage that brings a tropical twist to traditional iced tea. Its natural sweetness and refreshing taste make it a perfect choice for any occasion. Enjoy experimenting with different variations and find your favorite way to savor this fruity refreshment!
Mango Iced Tea Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Refresh your senses with this tropical Mango Iced Tea recipe, a perfect blend of robust black tea and naturally sweet mango syrup. Easy to prepare, customizable, and refreshing, this summer drink is perfect for gatherings, lazy afternoons, or as a rejuvenating treat.
Ingredients
- 2 large ripe mangoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 10 black or green tea bags
- 6 cups water
- Ice cubes
- Lemon or lime slices and fresh mint for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Mango Syrup:
- Combine diced mangoes, sugar, and 1 cup of water in a saucepan.
- Heat on low until sugar dissolves, then simmer for 10 minutes, mashing the mangoes occasionally.
- Cool to room temperature and strain to remove solids.
- Refrigerate in a sealed container for up to a week.
- Brew the Tea:
- Boil 6 cups of water and add tea bags.
- Boil for 1 minute, then remove from heat and steep for 5 minutes.
- Cool slightly and pour over ice in a pitcher.
- Assemble the Iced Tea:
- Fill a glass with ice cubes.
- Add 4 tablespoons of mango syrup.
- Pour brewed tea over the syrup and stir.
- Garnish with lemon or lime slices and mint, if desired.
Notes
- Adjust sweetness by varying the amount of mango syrup.
- Use store-bought mango juice for convenience, though fresh mangoes provide better flavor.
- For added flavor, experiment with other fruits like peaches, strawberries, or raspberries.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Beverages
- Method: Boiling and Steeping
- Cuisine: American with Tropical Influence
