The Story of Iced Tea

Iced tea originated at the St. Louis World Trade Fair in 1904. Vendors were trying to popularize black Indian teas to compete with the more popularly consumed green tea from China. As temperatures soared, Americans ignored the tea, preferring cold drinks. In desperation, British salesman Richard Blechynden poured tea into glasses filled with ice cubes. His efforts were rewarded as customers began to line up for this new cooling beverage.

To make iced tea, double the strength of the herb tea. Cool and serve over ice. Double strength tea will remain delicious as the ice melts. Fruit juices and carbonated ginger ale or soda water may be added for flavoring.

Iced Mint Tea

1 cup fresh chopped mint leaves
4 cups boiling water
juice of 1 orange and 1 lemon, freshly squeezed
1 tablespoon fresh ginger root, grated
2 tablespoons honey

Boil water and pour over mint leaves and grated ginger. Steep for 10 minutes. Strain. Melt honey into the tea. Mix fruit juices with tea and chill in refrigerator. Serve over ice and garnish with mint leaves and/or a slice of orange or lemon. Serves 2.