Summer, Sweet Tea, a Southern Secret.

Sipping a glass of ice cold sweet tea on the front porch in August just makes me happy. Grateful even. It's just impossibly perfect.

I've heard the whispers of Southern Belles and they've let me in on the secret ingredient to making the perfect pitcher of sweet tea. Now, a lady doesn't share her secrets with just anyone, but what the heck, we're friends, aren't we?

A pinch of baking soda.

Seriously. Baking soda. Why? Well, I've learned that the baking soda neutralizes the tannins and makes the tea less bitter and much smoother.

So, here goes...

FOR THE TEA:
10 cups Water, Divided
6 Regular Sized Black Tea Bags
1 pinch Baking Soda

In a saucepan, bring 3 cups of water to a boil. Remove the pot from the heat. Add tea bags and baking soda. Steep for 5–6 minutes.

Remove tea bags without squeezing. DO NOT JUST ADD SUGAR TO SWEETEN. Make a very simple "simple syrup."

FOR THE SIMPLE SYRUP:
3/4 cups Granulated Sugar
3/4 cups Water

Mix sugar and water in a small saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil and allow to boil for about 5–7 minutes. You’ll notice the mixture will reduce. Add to tea.

Pour the perfectly sweetened tea into a pitcher and add remaining 7 cups water. Serve over ice.

Now, go find yourself a nice rocking chair and relax. You deserve it. :)