Pineapple Ginger Iced Tea
A vibrant, refreshing iced tea infused with juicy pineapple chunks and spicy fresh ginger. The perfect balance of sweet tropical flavor and warming spice creates an uplifting, cooling beverage ideal for hot summer days.
Ingredients
- 4 black tea bags or 4 teaspoons loose-leaf black tea
- 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks plus additional for garnish
- 3- inch piece fresh ginger peeled and thinly sliced
- ¼ cup honey or maple syrup adjust to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 6 cups water
- Ice cubes
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish optional
- Pineapple wedges for garnish optional
Instructions
- Prepare the ginger-pineapple infusion: In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups of water with the sliced ginger and ½ cup of pineapple chunks. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes to extract the flavors.
- Add tea: Remove the saucepan from heat. Add the tea bags, cover, and let steep for 5 minutes. The tea should be stronger than usual as it will be diluted with ice later.
- Strain and sweeten: Remove the tea bags and strain the liquid into a heat-resistant pitcher, discarding the ginger slices but keeping the pineapple if desired. While still warm, stir in the honey or maple syrup until completely dissolved.
- Add cold water and flavorings: Pour in the remaining 4 cups of cold water, lemon juice, and the rest of the fresh pineapple chunks. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Chill thoroughly: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until completely cold. The flavors will continue to develop as it chills, creating a more cohesive taste profile.
- Serve with style: Fill glasses with ice, pour in the chilled tea, and garnish with additional fresh pineapple chunks and mint leaves if desired. Give a gentle stir before serving to distribute the flavors.
Notes
- For a stronger ginger flavor, grate some of the ginger instead of just slicing it.
- Green tea can be substituted for black tea for a lighter flavor profile and lower caffeine content.
- To make a sparkling version, replace 2 cups of the cold water with sparkling water just before serving.
- The tea keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, though the pineapple pieces are best when fresh.
- For an adult version, add a splash of white rum or coconut rum to each serving.