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This vibrant homemade mango iced tea combines the bold notes of black tea with tropical mango sweetness, creating a naturally refreshing beverage that's perfect for summer sipping.
I've served this at countless summer gatherings, and guests always appreciate its natural ingredients and bright flavor profile.
Essential Ingredients
- Black Tea: Choose Ceylon or English Breakfast for robust base
- Mangoes: Select ripe Ataulfo or Kent varieties for sweetest flavor
- Honey: Raw honey adds complexity regular sugar can't match
- Water: Filtered water ensures clean taste
- Ice: Large cubes prevent quick dilution
Detailed Instructions
- Perfect Your Tea Base:
- Heat filtered water to 212°F. Add tea bags and steep exactly 5 minutes. Remove bags without squeezing to prevent bitterness. Adding an extra tea bag creates stronger base that withstands ice dilution.
- Prepare Mango Infusion:
- Peel and cube mango, simmering with 2 cups water. Mash frequently against pan sides until completely broken down, about 10 minutes. Strain through fine-mesh sieve, pressing gently to extract maximum flavor without cloudiness.
- Combine Components:
- Add honey to hot tea first, stirring until dissolved. Gradually incorporate strained mango mixture, tasting between additions. Cool to room temperature before refrigerating to maintain clarity.
- Master the Service:
- Fill glasses with large ice cubes. Pour tea at an angle to prevent splashing. Garnish with fresh mango slices and optional mint. Serve immediately while ice is fresh.
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The combination of Ataulfo mango and wildflower honey creates an exceptional flavor profile that my family requests repeatedly.
Temperature Control
Proper tea steeping temperature ensures optimal flavor extraction without bitterness. Allow tea to cool gradually at room temperature before refrigerating to prevent cloudiness.
Ingredient Selection
Choose mangoes that yield slightly to pressure with sweet aroma at stem. Avoid overly soft or fibrous fruits for best texture and flavor.
Storage Strategy
Store in glass container with tight-fitting lid. Leave headspace for expansion. Keeps up to 4 days when properly refrigerated.
Make-Ahead Tips
Prepare mango infusion and tea base separately up to 24 hours ahead. Combine just before serving for freshest taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve in chilled glasses over large ice cubes. Offer mint sprigs, additional mango slices, and honey on the side for customization.
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After years of refinement, I've found this recipe's success lies in quality ingredients and precise temperature control, consistently delivering refreshing results that highlight natural mango sweetness.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use frozen mango instead of fresh?
- Yes, frozen mango works just as well and makes this drink convenient to prepare year-round.
- → How long can I store this tea in the refrigerator?
- The tea can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- → Can I make this tea sugar-free?
- Yes, you can skip the honey or use a sugar substitute of your choice.
- → What type of black tea works best?
- Any plain black tea works well - English Breakfast, Ceylon, or Orange Pekoe are good options.
- → Can I serve this tea hot?
- Yes, you can serve it hot immediately after mixing, without adding ice.