Chicken Free Sparkling Lemonade Berry Iced Tea
This drink is the kind of thing you make once and immediately want to serve at every warm-weather gathering. Fresh strawberries get muddled right in the pitcher, releasing their juice into a base of deep, steeped black tea and a bright maple-lemon syrup that pulls everything together beautifully. The sparkling water goes in last, giving each glass a lively fizz that makes it feel far more special than the effort involved. That lemon syrup — made with real citrus juice, zest, and maple syrup — adds a rounded sweetness without anything artificial or processed. Straining out the berry solids leaves you with a jewel-toned, silky drink that looks stunning over ice. A sprig of mint and a lemon wheel on the rim are optional, but honestly, why wouldn't you? It's naturally free of any animal proteins and works for a wide range of guests, making it an easy, crowd-pleasing pour for any occasion.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
For the tea base
- 4 black tea bags
- 3 cups boiling water
For the lemon syrup
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice (from about 2 lemons)
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- ¼ cup water
For the berry layer
- 16 medium strawberries, hulled and halved (about 200 g)
For assembling
- 2 cups sparkling water, chilled
- 2 cups ice cubes
For serving
- 4 lemon slices, for garnish (optional)
- 4 fresh mint sprigs, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Place the tea bags in a heatproof pitcher or large measuring cup. Pour the 3 cups of boiling water over them and steep for 4–5 minutes, until the tea is deep amber and full-flavored. Remove the bags without squeezing, then let the tea cool to room temperature, about 20–25 minutes.
- 2
While the tea steeps, combine the maple syrup, lemon juice, lemon zest, and 1/4 cup water in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the maple syrup is fully dissolved, about 2 minutes — the mixture should be smooth and slightly steaming but not boiling. Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!