Step 1: Choose a clean, clear, heat-safe glass jar or pitcher with a lid. Ensure it's large enough to hold at least 2 quarts of liquid.
Step 2: Place the tea bags into the glass jar. For a stronger sun tea recipe, you can add an extra tea bag or two. For loose leaf tea, use a large tea infuser bag.
Step 3: Carefully pour the 2 quarts of filtered water over the tea bags. If you're adding optional fresh ingredients like lemon slices or mint, now is the time to add them to the jar.
Step 4: Securely place the lid on the jar. This prevents any debris or insects from getting into your tea while it brews and helps to retain the sun's heat.
Step 5: Place the lidded jar in a spot where it will receive direct sunlight for at least 2 to 4 hours. A sunny porch, patio, or windowsill is ideal. The warmer the sun, the faster the tea will steep. Monitor the color of the sun tea recipe as it brews; it should reach your desired strength.
Step 6: Once the sun tea has reached your preferred strength (usually a deep amber for black tea), bring the jar indoors. Remove the tea bags, gently squeezing them to extract any remaining liquid, but be careful not to over-squeeze, which can release bitterness. Discard the tea bags.
Step 7: Allow the sun tea to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to the refrigerator to chill thoroughly for at least 1-2 hours before serving. This sun tea recipe is best served cold over ice, with optional lemon wedges or a sprig of mint. Sweeten to taste, if desired.