Basil And Watermelon Iced Tea

Ingredients:

For Watermelon Simple Syrup:

• 5 cups watermelon cubes

• 1 cup granulated sugar

For the Iced Tea:

• 2 tea bags

• ¼ cup fresh basil leaves

• ¼ tsp baking soda

• 5 ½ cups water

• ¾ cup watermelon simple syrup

• Extra basil sprigs

• Watermelon slices

Directions:

1. To create the watermelon simple syrup first blend the watermelon cubes until smooth.

2. Pour the mixture through a strainer.

3. Take 2 cups of the watermelon juice and sugar into a saucepan.

4. Heat over medium-high heat until the sugar has dissolved.

5. Let the mixture cool in a heat-proof container.

6. For the iced tea, in a large pitcher add the tea bags, basil leaves, and baking soda.

7. In a saucepan bring 4 cups of water to a boil. 

8. Then add the boiling water to the pitcher to steep the tea bags and basil leaves.

9. Let it steep for around 15 minutes then remove the tea bags and basil leaves with tongs.

10.  Stir in the watermelon simple syrup and mix together. 

11.  Let the mixture chill.

12.  When ready to serve, fill a glass with ice and the watermelon mixture.

13.  Garnish with some watermelon slices and basil sprigs or leaves and serve.

Notes: 

• The watermelon simple syrup can be made days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should be good for a few days.

• You may adjust the amount of watermelon simple syrup to taste.

• To make a large batch just double the measurements. 

• The iced tea mixture can last in the refrigerator for up to 2 days if it is covered and stored properly.