Step 1

In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, bring 2 cups water to a boil. Remove saucepan from heat and add tea bags. Let steep for 5 minutes.

Step 2

Remove tea bags from water, using a pair of tongs to squeeze out any excess liquid from the bag.

Step 3

Pour tea into a large pitcher, then add 4 cups of water and baking soda. Set pitcher aside for now.

Step 4

In the same medium saucepan, add the remaining 2 cups of water, strawberries, and sugar. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Allow mixture to cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 5

Remove saucepan from heat and allow the strawberry syrup to cool, about 10-20 minutes.

Step 6

Strain strawberry syrup through a mesh strainer into a medium bowl, pressing the strawberries against the strainer to release any remaining juice. Discard the remaining strawberry pulp.

Step 7

Pour strawberry syrup into the pitcher with brewed tea, then mix well.

Step 8

Serve immediately in glasses filled with ice and more strawberries as garnish (optional)