How To Make Fresh Herbal Sun Tea Recipe

I love this fresh herbal sun tea recipe because it’s simple yet transformative. I infuse cool filtered water with mixed fresh herbs and citrus, letting nature work its magic under the sun. It’s my favorite pick for refreshing moments, full of natural flavors, subtle tang, and sweetness for a sunny afternoon.

I love making fresh herbal sun tea because it’s a simple way to enjoy the natural benefits of herbs and refresh myself during warm days. I start with a quart of filtered cool water to preserve the herbs’ fresh flavors, then add a cup of loosely packed mixed fresh herbs.

This recipe has proven its nutritional benefits with vitamins and antioxidants that help boost your immune system. Sometimes I throw in lemon slices for a bit of tang and extra vitamin C, and if I feel like it I sweeten my tea with a little honey.

I often serve my tea over ice on really hot days to keep it chilled. Over time I have combined ideas from different sources like those found in Books And Tea and Kitchen Witch Recipes along with ideas from Herbal Magic and Herb Tea tips.

The process is simple and lets me experiment using ideas from Sun Tea and Magia Das Ervas recipe influences. Enjoy this healthy drink each time you prepare it.

Why I Like this Recipe

I really like this recipe because it gives me a chance to be creative with what herbs i have on hand. Its fun to mix and match different flavors and see which combination i like best.

I also love how simple it is to make. I don’t need any fancy equipment or ingredients just a few fresh herbs and some cool water. That makes it really easy to whip up when i feel like something refreshing.

Another reason is that i enjoy the whole process of letting the tea steep in the sun. It feels almost like a mini ritual that helps me relax and appreciate nature a little bit more every time i make it.

Plus, customizing it with a bit of honey or even adding a few lemon slices makes it just right for my taste. I always feel like i’m making it my own little drink that really suits my mood on a hot day.

Ingredients

• Cool, filtered water hydrates while preserving the herbs’ true flavor.
• Fresh mint, basil, and lemon balm deliver antioxidants, vitamins, and natural aroma.
• Thin lemon slices impart tang, added vitamin C, and a refreshing zest.
• Honey sweetens naturally, offering energy and antioxidants in each sip.
• Ice cubes cool the tea quickly, perfect for a sunny, refreshing day.
• Using cool water safeguards delicate flavors and preserves herbs’ natural nutrients, ensuring a pure brew.
• The simple blend creates a naturally vibrant, flavorful drink that satisfies and refreshes.
• Enjoy a healthy, homemade tea full of natural ingredients perfect for warm days.

Ingredient Quantities

• 1 quart filtered water (use cool water, not boiled, to preserve the herbs’ fresh flavors)
• 1 cup loosely packed mixed fresh herbs (like mint, lemon balm, basil or any other herbs you have on hand)
• Optional: 1-2 thin lemon slices (for a little extra tang)
• Optional: Honey or another sweetener (add to taste, if you like it a bit sweeter)
• Optional: Ice cubes (for serving, if you want your tea chilled)

How to Make this

1. Start by filling a clean glass jar or pitcher with 1 quart of filtered, cool water.

2. Next, toss in 1 cup of loosely packed mixed fresh herbs like mint, lemon balm, basil, or any other herbs you have. If you can, gently bruise them to help release their flavor.

3. If you want a little extra tang, add 1-2 thin lemon slices to the water with the herbs.

4. Cover the container lightly with a lid or some plastic wrap so nothing gets in.

5. Place the jar in a sunny spot outside, like on your porch or a windowsill that gets direct sunlight.

6. Let it sit in the sun for about 3 to 5 hours, checking on it every now and then to see if it has reached the flavor you like.

7. Once it’s to your liking, strain out the herbs and lemon slices from the water.

8. If you prefer your tea a bit sweeter, stir in a little honey or another sweetener to taste.

9. For a refreshing touch, serve your tea over ice cubes.

10. Enjoy your fresh herbal sun tea, and feel free to experiment by switching up the herbs next time you make it!

Equipment Needed

1. A clean glass jar or pitcher (about 1 quart)
2. A knife and cutting board (for slicing the lemon if you want to add slices)
3. A lid or some plastic wrap (to lightly cover the jar)
4. A strainer (to remove the herbs and lemon slices after steeping)
5. A spoon (for stirring in any sweetener you choose)
6. An ice cube tray (if you plan on serving the tea with ice)

FAQ

• Q: How long should I let my herbs steep in the sunlight?
  A: You should leave the herbs in the water for about 3-5 hours in direct sunlight. Over-steeping may make the tea a bit bitter.
• Q: Why do we use cool water instead of boiling water?
  A: Using cool water keeps the herbs flavors fresh and vibrant. Boiling water can destroy the delicate notes in the herbs.
• Q: Can I substitute any herbs or do I have to use mint?
  A: You can mix and match! Mint, lemon balm, basil, or any herb you have will work really well. Experimenting with different herbs might make a cool new flavor.
• Q: Can I store the prepared sun tea in the fridge?
  A: Yeah, you can store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just make sure you cover it properly so it doesn’t get any unwanted smells.
• Q: Is it safe to leave the tea in the sun?
  A: It’s pretty safe if you use filtered water and keep it out only for a few hours. Just dont leave it for too long or in super hot weather as it might start to lose its bright flavors.

How To Make Fresh Herbal Sun Tea Recipe Substitutions and Variations

• Filtered water: You can use spring water instead for a slightly different taste. Just make sure it’s still fresh enough so it doesn’t alter the herbal flavor.
• Mixed fresh herbs: If you dont have mint, lemon balm, or basil on hand, you could easily swap in rosemary or thyme, but use a bit less since they are pretty strong.
• Lemon slices: Try using lime or even orange slices for a fun citrus twist when you want something a bit different.
• Honey: Agave nectar or maple syrup works well if you are lookin for an alternative sweetener, just adjust it to your taste.
• Ice cubes: If you dont have any ice, chill the tea in the fridge overnight and serve it cold. It still works great.

Pro Tips

1. For an even more burst of flavor, try giving the herbs a little massage before you steep them. Just crush them gently with your fingers so their oils mix nicely with the water.

2. Make sure you use cool water only. If the water is too warm it might mess up the fresh taste of the herbs, so stick to cool filtered water for the best results.

3. Keep a close eye on your tea while it’s brewing in the sun. Depending on how hot it is, you might need to check a bit more often so it doesn’t get too strong or start to taste off.

4. If you’re adding honey or any sweetener, start with just a little bit and then taste. It’s easier to add more later than to try and mask a flavor that turned out too sweet.