Sun Teas - or - Tea Without Having To Boil The Water

The Sun Tea popularity began in the '60's and '70's.  What's interesting though is that no heat is actually required to make tea.  If you put teabags in water, whether they're in the sun on your porch, on your countertop, or in the refrigerator, Tea Will Happen!  However, in the summer, there's a certain earthy charm to this idea.  Here are some ideas for making Sun Tea.

Start with filtered water, a glass pitcher, or one that cleans easily, preferably with a 'plunger.'  This makes it easy to mix (stir) the tea before you pour it every time.  Chose which tea you'd like to make for the next day or two.  If using bagged tea, two bags should be enough for a big - approximately half gallon - pitcher like this, unless you prefer it stronger.  If using bulk tea or dried spices and herbs, find a tea ball, spoon or other type of tea-infuser you like best.  So many are available and you can grow your own too.

I have a Lemon Thyme plant in my back yard.  This fall I'll trim it, wash the sprigs, dry then dehydrate the stems and leaves.  I'll use the crumbled leaves and stems for tea this winter.  I also like Sweet Fern tea.  Since it grows all over this area, all I need to do is take a short walk to gather a big bunch of this interesting herb.  Be creative!

Herbs and spices that are your favorites can also be used.  Some coarsely chopped ginger, twisted orange peels - to release the citrus oils, clove, cinnamon sticks can be combined to produce a nice spicy, citrus tea.


Wash the citrus well before using the peels.  Include as much of each ingredient as you like, then when the flavor is the way you right, strain it into another pitcher or large bowl then strain again back into the pitcher.  If using regular herbs, however, fill the small infusers as full as possible.  For a bigger tea ball, fill only about half full unless the tea you're using is very mild.

Plunge the tea every hour or two if you're in a hurry.

Otherwise, left alone, it will turn into tea within 2-6 hours.  Now is a good time to add sweetener.  I pour a little pure Maple syrup into the pitcher to sweeten mine.  When ready, serve chilled or heat a little for a nice cup of your very own hot tea blend.  Happy Tea Time! . . . Lin