Before you cast your traditional iced tea aside and get wild with interesting mix-ins, here's a recipe to help you make the basic version perfectly every time.
Bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Drop in the tea bags in and steep for only 10-12 minutes, otherwise it will be too strong and tannic tasting. After steeping, take out the bags, squeeze gently and discard them. (Unless, of course, you were brought up in a house like mine, where tea bags are re-used three times. Probably why I became a chef.)
Sweeten if you like now — you may also use Stevia, agave, or Truvia for sweetener if you prefer. Place the hot tea in a pitcher and add the remaining cold water. Refrigerate until chilled.
