How to transform iced tea into an irresistible cocktail

Gourmandize

Iced tea is an ideal beverage—it's light, refreshing and flavorful all at once. For the traditional method, always prepare a cold infusion so that the tea doesn't take on a bitter taste.

Using a tea infuser, plunge 4 tablespoons loose tea in 2 cups water (filtered works best) and let steep for 30 to 40 minutes at room temperature. Remove the infuser and store the tea in the fridge. 

Did you know that with this tasty flavor base you can also make some amazing cocktails?

It's just what you need to spruce up your regular iced tea recipe.

To transform iced tea into an irresistible cocktail, simply combine alcohol, flavored syrup, your iced tea base, fruits and some sparkling water, if desired.

Depending on the iced tea flavor, choose your alcohol addition accordingly. If you're not about taking risks, stick to vodka. Or kick your mild-tasting tea up a notch with the spiced notes of a high-quality whisky. You can also opt for gin, rum or even Champagne, for when you're feeling fancy.

Here are some thirst-quenching recipes to get you started!

With Champagne : Green tea peach cocktail

Palais des thés is a well-known French tea brand that proposes an excellent cocktail recipe, which includes an iced tea base prepared with green tea, peach-flavored liqueur and Champagne. For 5 people, you'll need: 1 1/4 cups iced tea (made with green tea), 1 1/4 cups Champagne and 5 teaspoons peach liqueur.

With whisky: Black tea orange mint cocktail

For 4 people, you'll need: 2 1/2 cups iced tea (made with black tea), 4 orange slices, 4 teaspoons cane sugar syrup and 2 1/2 to 3 1/2 ounces whiskey.

Gently crush the orange slices with the mint and syrup in a bowl. Add the whisky, iced tea preparation and some ice cubes to finish.

With vodka : Grown-up peach iced tea

For each serving, you'll need 2 teaspoons cane sugar syrup, 1 2/3 ounces vodka, 2/3 cup iced tea prepared with a peach-flavored tea, and ice cubes. Add a lime wedge to garnish. 

With rum : Mojito-style iced tea

For each serving, you'll need 3 lime wedges, 5 mint leaves, 1/4 cup + 1 tablespoon crushed ice, 4 teaspoons sugar cane syrup, 2 tablespoons sparkling water, 1 ounce white rum and 2/3 cup iced tea prepared with green tea.

In each glass, place the mint leaves, followed by the lime wedges, then the sugar cane syrup. Gently crush the ingredients, using a muddler. Add the crushed ice and pour in the remaining ingredients. Stir well and serve with 2 straws.

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