BHA & BHT Free Strawberry Basil Iced Tea
Few drinks feel as refreshing as a tall glass of iced tea on a warm afternoon, and this strawberry basil version takes that classic comfort somewhere genuinely special. The homemade strawberry basil syrup is the real star ā fresh hulled strawberries are simmered with maple syrup until they release a gorgeous deep pink juice, then fragrant basil leaves steep right into the warm liquid for a floral, herby finish that bottled syrups simply can't replicate. That matters a lot here, because many commercial flavored teas and pre-made syrups rely on synthetic preservatives like BHA and BHT to extend shelf life ā making a from-scratch approach the cleanest and most satisfying route. Every ingredient in this recipe is whole and recognizable: fresh fruit, fresh herbs, black tea, and maple syrup. The brewed tea and syrup come together in a pitcher with cold water, then chill until ready to pour over ice ā simple, no-fuss, and completely worth the wait. Garnished with a sprig of basil and a few strawberry slices, it's as pretty as it is delicious, and impressive enough to serve to guests without any extra effort.
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 āIngredients
4 servings
For the tea
- 4 cups water
- 4 black tea bags
For the strawberry basil syrup
- 1 lb fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- Ā½ cup maple syrup
- Ā½ cup water
- Ā½ cup fresh basil leaves, loosely packed
To finish
- 2 cups cold water
For serving
- ice, for serving
- fresh basil sprigs, for garnish (optional)
- sliced strawberries, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan over high heat. Remove from the heat, add the tea bags, and steep for 5 minutes. Remove and discard the tea bags, then set the brewed tea aside to cool slightly.
- 2
While the tea steeps, combine the halved strawberries, maple syrup, and 1/2 cup water in the same saucepan (or a second small saucepan) over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries have softened and released their juices and the liquid is a deep pink, about 8 minutes.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!