Step 1

Mix ¾ cups sugar with ¾ cups water in a small saucepan over medium high heat. Stir until dissolved.

Step 2

Bring mixture to a boil, which will suspend the sugar. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.

Step 3

Heat 4 cups of water in a saucepan until it is hot, but not boiling.

Step 4

Pour the water over the tea bags and let them steep for 15 minutes.

Step 5

Remove tea bags and add simple syrup. Mix well. Add baking soda if desired.

Step 6

Chill in the refrigerator and serve over ice. If desired, more water can be added to the mixture to dilute the flavor.