Gelatin Free Strawberry Basil Iced Tea
This drink is the definition of summer in a glass ā fruity, herbal, and deeply refreshing in a way that store-bought bottled teas simply can't match. Fresh strawberries are simmered down with maple syrup until they release a gorgeous deep-pink juice, then basil leaves are steeped right into that warm syrup to layer in a subtle, aromatic complexity. The whole thing is completely plant-based and free from any animal-derived thickeners or setting agents, so every sip is exactly what it looks like ā just real, whole ingredients doing beautiful work. Straining the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve gives the finished tea a clean, jewel-toned clarity that looks stunning poured over ice. Maple syrup brings a gentle, rounded sweetness that plays off the tartness of the strawberries without tipping into cloying territory. Serve it garnished with a sprig of fresh basil and a few strawberry slices for a pitcher drink that feels genuinely special, whether you're hosting a backyard gathering or just treating yourself on a warm afternoon.
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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.
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