Lebanese Iced Tea Recipe (with Rosewater)

Water: The base of the tea, used for boiling and steeping the black tea leaves.

Black tea leaves: Provides the strong, rich flavor typical of traditional iced tea.

Rosewater: Adds a unique floral aroma and taste, setting this iced tea apart from the usual.

Sugar: Sweetens the tea to balance the bitterness of the black tea leaves.

Ice cubes: Used to chill the tea and make it refreshing.

When steeping the black tea leaves, ensure the water is not boiling vigorously but rather at a gentle simmer. This helps to extract the flavors without making the tea too bitter. Additionally, when adding rosewater, do so gradually and taste as you go, as its floral notes can be quite potent. Adjust the sugar to your preference, keeping in mind that chilling the tea can slightly dull the sweetness.

• water - Substitute with coconut water: Adds a subtle sweetness and a hint of tropical flavor.

• black tea leaves - Substitute with green tea leaves: Provides a lighter, more delicate flavor and is lower in caffeine.

• black tea leaves - Substitute with herbal tea leaves: Offers a caffeine-free option with a variety of flavors depending on the herbal blend.

• rosewater - Substitute with orange blossom water: Delivers a similar floral aroma and flavor, commonly used in Middle Eastern cuisine.

• rosewater - Substitute with vanilla extract: Adds a sweet, aromatic flavor, though it will change the profile of the tea.

• sugar - Substitute with honey: Provides a natural sweetness and a slightly different flavor profile.

• sugar - Substitute with agave syrup: Offers a lower glycemic index and a mild, sweet flavor.

• ice cubes - Substitute with frozen fruit cubes: Adds flavor and a bit of natural sweetness as they melt.

• ice cubes - Substitute with crushed ice: Cools the tea faster and gives a different texture.

• Allow the Lebanese iced tea to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can dilute the flavor.
• Transfer the cooled tea into an airtight container or a glass pitcher with a lid to maintain its freshness and prevent it from absorbing any unwanted odors from the fridge.
• Store the tea in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The rosewater and black tea flavors will remain vibrant during this period.
• If you wish to freeze the tea, pour it into ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer the tea cubes into a freezer-safe bag or container. This method allows you to enjoy the tea without diluting it when you serve it over ice.
• To serve, simply place the frozen tea cubes in a glass and pour freshly brewed tea over them, or let them melt in a pitcher for a chilled beverage.
• Always give the tea a good stir before serving to ensure the sugar and rosewater are evenly distributed.
• For an added touch of freshness, consider adding a few fresh mint leaves or a slice of lemon to each glass before serving.

• Pour the Lebanese iced tea into a saucepan and gently heat over low heat until it reaches your desired temperature. Be careful not to boil it, as this can alter the delicate flavors of the rosewater and black tea.

• Alternatively, you can use a microwave-safe mug to reheat individual servings. Microwave on medium power in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the tea is warm. This method helps to evenly distribute the heat without overheating.

• If you prefer a more traditional approach, you can use a double boiler. Place the iced tea in a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water. Stir occasionally until the tea is warmed through. This gentle method preserves the aromatic qualities of the rosewater.

• For a quick and easy method, you can use an electric kettle with a temperature control feature. Set it to a low temperature, around 150°F (65°C), and pour the tea into the kettle. This ensures a consistent and gentle reheating process.

• If you have a sous-vide machine, you can place the iced tea in a sealed bag and immerse it in a water bath set to 150°F (65°C). This method provides precise temperature control and evenly warms the tea without any risk of overheating.

• Saucepan: Used to boil the water for the tea.

• Strainer: Used to strain the tea leaves from the liquid.

• Pitcher: Used to hold the tea after it has been strained.

• Stirring spoon: Used to mix the rosewater and sugar into the tea.

• Refrigerator: Used to cool the tea to the desired temperature.

• Ice cube tray: Used to make the ice cubes for serving.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the black tea leaves and rosewater.

• Measuring cup: Used to measure the water and sugar.

Boil water in advance: Boil the water ahead of time and store it in the fridge to speed up the cooling process.

Use tea bags: Substitute black tea leaves with tea bags for quicker cleanup.

Dissolve sugar in hot tea: Add sugar while the tea is still hot to ensure it dissolves faster.

Pre-chill pitcher: Place the pitcher in the fridge before use to help cool the tea more quickly.

Make ice cubes in advance: Prepare ice cubes ahead of time to have them ready when needed.