Have you ever tried to make iced tea at home that ended up tasting too bitter?  It may be because you steeped the tea too long.  If you steep for too long, high levels of tannin and caffeine end up in your final product, resulting in bitterness.  So, here are some guidelines for making a gallon of iced tea:

• Bring 2 quarts of water to a boil.
• Add 8 tea bags or ½ cup loose tea leaves to the 2 quarts of water
• Steep 2- 4 minutes, NO LONGER
• When the tea is cool, add 2 quarts of cold water and/or ice and enjoy

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