Beverages

Classic French Iced Tea (Thé Glacé)

Name: Classic French Iced Tea (Thé Glacé)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 4 cups Water; 4 bags or tbsp High-quality Black Tea Bags or Loose Leaf Tea; 0.25 cup Granulated Sugar; 1 whole, sliced Fresh Lemon; 4 sprigs Fresh Mint Sprigs; 2 cups (for serving) Ice Cubes

1h 15min4 servingsEasy80 cal

A truly refreshing and elegant chilled beverage, Thé glacé is a beloved staple in French cafés and homes during warmer months. It's typically less sweet and more refined than its American counterparts, often subtly flavored with fresh lemon and aromatic mint, offering a sophisticated cooling experience. While iced tea is enjoyed globally, the French iteration, Thé glacé, distinguishes itself with an emphasis on delicate balance. It highlights the natural tea flavor with subtle sweetness and fresh aromatics like mint or lemon, reflecting a cultural preference for natural, less sugary drinks. It's a common and chic offering in bistros and a sophisticated alternative to sodas, especially during the summer.

FrenchBeverageRefreshingSummer DrinkIced Tea

Ingredients

4 cups Water
4 bags or tbsp High-quality Black Tea Bags or Loose Leaf Tea
0.25 cup Granulated Sugar
1 whole, sliced Fresh Lemon
4 sprigs Fresh Mint Sprigs
2 cups (for serving) Ice Cubes

Instructions

1
Bring 4 cups of fresh water to a rolling boil in a saucepan or kettle.
2
Remove the water from heat. Add the black tea bags (or loose leaf tea in an infuser) to the hot water. Steep for 3-5 minutes, depending on your desired strength. Do not oversteep, as this can lead to bitterness.
3
Remove the tea bags or infuser. While the tea is still hot, add the granulated sugar. Stir well until the sugar is completely dissolved.
4
Allow the sweetened tea to cool to room temperature, which will take about 20-30 minutes.
5
Once cooled, transfer the tea to a pitcher or airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until thoroughly chilled.
6
To serve, fill glasses with ice cubes. Pour the chilled Thé glacé over the ice.
7
Garnish each glass with a slice of fresh lemon and a sprig of fresh mint before serving. Gently muddle the mint in the glass for extra aroma if desired.

Chef's Tips

•Storage: Store your Thé glacé in an airtight pitcher or container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavor is best within the first two days.
•Substitutions: For an unsweetened version, simply omit the sugar. You can also experiment with other tea varieties like green tea, white tea, or even fruit-infused herbal teas. Honey or agave nectar can be used as alternatives to granulated sugar.
•Cold Brew Method: For a smoother, less bitter iced tea, try cold brewing. Combine 4 cups cold water with 4 tea bags/tablespoons of loose leaf tea in a pitcher. Refrigerate for 8-12 hours, then strain and sweeten to taste. This method yields a naturally sweeter tea.
•Fun Fact: While iced tea gained widespread popularity in the United States, cold tea drinks have a long history across various cultures. The inclusion of lemon and mint in French Thé glacé elevates it to a refreshing, aromatic experience.