Step 1

Combine the purified water and tea (loose leaf or tea bags) in a large pitcher (glass, plastic, or ceramic). If desired, add fresh herbs, citrus, fruit, etc. (muddle them first to help extract more flavor).

Step 2

Cover the pitcher and place it in the refrigerator to chill & infuse. Steep the tea for 8-12 hours, then taste it. I'm usually happy with 12 hours of infusing, but you can stick it back in for another 12 hours (24 hours total) if you want a stronger flavor with a bit more caffeine. If you like light tasting tea, you might find it tasty after only 4-6 hours.

Step 3

When you're ready to drink, remove & discard the tea bags along with any fresh ingredients (fruit, herbs, etc.) OR strain & discard the loose leaves and fresh ingredients through a cheesecloth, nut milk bag, or coffee filter.

Step 4

Serve the tea chilled (with or without ice) and sweeten to taste, if desired. Keep the cold brew tea covered in the fridge and consume within a week (5 days if fresh ingredients are used).