Blackberry Sweet Tea

• fresh blackberries (or frozen blackberries, thawed)3 cups
• sugar↗1 1⁄4 cups
• chopped of fresh mint1 tablespoon
• baking soda↗1 pinch

  (optional)

• boiling water4 cups
• family-size tea bags (decaf is best)2
• cold water2 1⁄2 cups
• fresh blackberries (to garnish)↗

Step-by-step instructions

1. 1

   Combine blackberries and sugar in a large container, and crush with a wooden spoon; stir in mint and baking soda(if using).

2. 2

   Boill 4 cups of water and pour over tea bags; cover and steep 5 minutes. Discard tea bags.

3. 3

   Pour tea over blackberry mixture; let stand at room temperature 1 hour.

4. 4

   Pour tea through a wire-mesh strainer into a large pitcher, discarding solids. Add 2 1/2 cups cold water, stirring until sugar dissolves. Cover and chill 1 hour.

5. 5

   Garnish, if desired.