Down-Home Blackberry Sweet Tea: A Refreshing Sip of Southern Summer

Welcome to the epitome of Southern hospitality and refreshment – our delightful Blackberry Sweet Tea recipe. As the warm rays of the summer sun dance upon our porches and the gentle breeze carries the scent of ripe blackberries, there’s no better way to quench your thirst than with this irresistibly charming elixir. A symphony of bold blackberry flavors and the comforting embrace of sweet tea unite in perfect harmony to create a beverage that’s both cooling and comforting. So, take a moment to relax, kick back, and savor every sip of this blissful concoction that embodies the essence of Southern tradition and hospitality.

Tip: To reduce bitterness, add a pinch of baking soda prior to brewing and remove tea bags as soon as the pressure has been fully released. 

Prep time: 5 minutes

Cook time: 5 minutes active (+ time to come to pressure)
Natural Release: 10 minutes

Serves: 4-6

Ingredients:

8 c. water
6 organic black tea bags, paper tags removed
1½ c. fresh blackberries, divided
2 T. fresh basil, chopped
½ c. honey, preferably local
½ c. water
2 T. fresh lemon juice

Optional garnish:

Fresh blackberries

Fresh basil sprigs

Directions:

1. Add water, tea bags, and a half cup of blackberries to Instant Pot® and stir to combine. Add lid and lock into place. Switch the vent to “Sealing” and set the “Manual” setting to 5 minutes.
2. While the tea is brewing, add the remaining blackberries, basil, honey, and water to a saucepan set over medium heat. Cook, gently pressing on the blackberries to release their juices while continually stirring the mixture to combine, for 4-5 minutes. Once the honey is completely melted and the mixture starts to thicken, remove from heat and set aside. 
3. When cook time on Instant Pot® is complete, allow pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then do a quick release to release any remaining pressure.
4. Carefully strain the hot tea mixture with a fine mesh strainer. Pour the reserved liquid into a large, heat-resistant pitcher and sweeten with the blackberry honey simple syrup, to taste. Add fresh lemon juice and stir to combine. 
5. Serve immediately over ice with fresh blackberries and a sprig of fresh basil for garnish. Enjoy! 

As you bid farewell to this enchanting Blackberry Sweet Tea, may its memories linger long after the last drop is savored. Whether shared with friends and family at a summertime gathering or enjoyed as a solo indulgence on a tranquil afternoon, this delightful concoction embodies the soul of the South. As you embark on your culinary adventures, we hope this recipe has sparked a newfound appreciation for the simple joys that nature’s bounty can bring. So, until we meet again around the table, may your days be filled with the sweetness of life and the warmth of cherished moments shared over this timeless Southern elixir. Cheers to the beauty of simplicity and to the many more culinary delights that await on your gastronomic journey!

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