When the weather is hot, cold-brew tea is the easiest way to drink more water with flavor. It is smoother and less bitter than iced hot tea, and it needs almost no equipment.
What you need
A 500 mL cup or bottle with a filter
4–6 g of loose tea
Cool or room-temperature filtered water
Method
Put the leaves in the filter.
Fill with cool water and close the lid.
Leave it in the fridge or a cool spot for 4–8 hours (green and white teas need less time, oolong and black teas more).
Remove the filter and enjoy within a day.
Best teas for cold brew
Green tea becomes sweet and grassy without bitterness. Jasmine tea is floral and refreshing. Lightly roasted oolong gives a creamy, peachy flavor. Black tea turns smooth and mellow, great with a slice of lemon.
Why cold brew tastes softer
Cold water extracts caffeine and tannins more slowly than hot water, while aromatic compounds still come through. The result is gentle, naturally sweet tea that is hard to over-steep.
Make a cup before bed and it will be ready for the morning commute.