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This homemade Mango Iced Tea brings together the rich depth of black tea and the juicy sweetness of fresh mango for a drink that feels both soothing and ever so refreshing. Perfect for hot afternoons, parties, or whenever you need a pick-me-up straight from your fridge.
Every summer I keep a pitcher on hand and it never lasts more than a day guests always ask for a refill and my kids love it after coming home from the pool
Ingredients
- Black tea bags: because they offer a robust base to balance the fruit Opt for a quality loose leaf if you want extra flavor
- Ripe mango or frozen mango cubes: for that lush tropical sweetness Always choose a mango that gently gives when pressed and avoid fibrous ones like Tommy Atkins if you can find something sweeter
- Water: some to steep the tea some to simmer the mango
- Honey: adds mellow sweetness and richness Use a floral honey for a more complex flavor Citrus blossom honey works beautifully
- Ice: keeps each glass crisp and frosty Clear cubes melt more slowly if you want to avoid dilution
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Boil and Steep Tea:
- Pour two cups of just boiled water over the tea bags in a large pitcher Let them steep for about ten minutes so the tea is strong but not bitter Remove the bags and set aside
- Prepare Mango Puree:
- Dice the mango then combine it in a small saucepan with the remaining two cups of water Bring to a gentle boil then reduce the heat so it simmers for about ten minutes Keep pressing the mango with a fork or potato masher until you have a fragrant chunky puree
- Combine and Sweeten:
- Strain the mango mixture directly into the pitcher with steeped tea Make sure to press out as much juice as possible Stir in the honey thoroughly while everything is still warm so it dissolves smoothly
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the tea come to room temperature before transferring to the fridge to chill Serve over plenty of ice and add a few mango slices to each glass for an extra pop of color and fruitiness
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Mango is hands down my favorite fruit to blend into tea because it melts right into the liquid and never turns stringy My sister and I used to sneak the first sips straight from the pitcher while it was still warm
Storage Tips
Store leftover mango iced tea in a tightly covered pitcher in the fridge for up to four days Give it a good stir before serving as the pulp can settle at the bottom If you want to prep ahead you can freeze mango puree in ice cube trays and add directly to tea
Ingredient Substitutions
Use green tea bags if you prefer a milder base For a vegan option swap the honey for maple syrup or agave nectar If fresh mango is out of season frozen mango works perfectly and saves time on peeling and chopping
Serving Suggestions
Garnish each glass with fresh mint or a lime wedge for a bright burst Add a splash of sparkling water if you love a bit of fizz I sometimes tuck in extra fruit slices like strawberries for a colorful party pitcher
Cultural Context
Iced tea is a classic in American homes especially during summer Mango tea has roots across tropical countries but using honey as sweetener draws from Southern traditions I first tasted something similar at a cookout in Georgia and it instantly became a family favorite
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What type of mango works best?
Fresh ripe mango provides the brightest flavor, but frozen mango cubes offer a convenient option with similar results.
- → Can I use other sweeteners besides honey?
Yes, agave syrup, maple syrup, or regular sugar can be used instead of honey to adjust the sweetness to your preference.
- → How long will the iced tea keep in the fridge?
It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving, as natural separation may occur.
- → Do I need to strain the mango mixture?
Straining removes any fibers from the mango, resulting in a smoother drink, though some prefer leaving small fruit pieces for texture.
- → What garnishes pair well with mango iced tea?
Add mango slices, lemon wedges, or a sprig of mint for a vibrant presentation and extra freshness.