My nana used to make this in huge batches and gift them to neighbors in mason jars

After steeping for 5-7 minutes, depending on your preference for tea strength, remove the tea bags from the saucepan, squeezing them gently to extract every last drop of flavor. The resulting brew should be rich, fragrant, and perfectly steeped, ready to mingle with the strawberry syrup.
Carefully pour the strawberry syrup into the brewed tea, using a fine mesh strainer to catch any stray seeds or pulp. As you do so, marvel at the transformation taking place as the ruby-red syrup swirls and mingles with the amber-colored tea, creating a symphony of flavors and colors.
To achieve the perfect balance of sweetness and refreshment, stir in the remaining 4 cups of cold water, diluting the tea mixture to your desired strength. This final addition not only cools the tea but also ensures that each sip is a harmonious blend of flavors, with no single element overpowering the others.
With the Southern Strawberry Sweet Tea prepared and perfected, transfer it to a pitcher and place it in the refrigerator to chill, allowing the flavors to meld and develop to their fullest potential.
When the time comes to serve, fill glasses with ice and pour the sweet tea over the frosty cubes, watching as condensation forms on the glass and anticipation builds. For an extra touch of elegance, garnish each glass with a sprig of fresh mint and a slice of lemon, adding visual flair and a hint of citrusy brightness to the proceedings.
Pairing Suggestions:

Southern Strawberry Sweet Tea is not just a beverage; it’s a culinary experience that begs to be savored alongside a variety of complementary dishes. For a leisurely brunch or afternoon tea, pair it with delicate finger sandwiches, flaky scones, and fresh fruit for a spread that is both elegant and indulgent. If you’re planning a casual gathering or picnic, serve it alongside classic Southern fare such as fried chicken, collard greens, and cornbread, allowing the flavors of the tea to complement and enhance the hearty flavors of the meal. And let’s not forget dessert—a slice of moist pound cake or a bowl of homemade ice cream is the perfect finale to any meal, especially when accompanied by a tall glass of sweet tea.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Southern Strawberry Sweet Tea is more than just a beverage; it’s a celebration of Southern hospitality, culinary creativity, and the simple pleasures of life. From its humble beginnings as a thirst-quenching refreshment enjoyed on porches and in parlors across the South, this beloved drink has evolved into a symbol of warmth, welcome, and the vibrant flavors of the region. So the next time you find yourself in need of a pick-me-up on a hot summer’s day or a touch of sweetness at your next gathering, reach for a glass of Southern Strawberry Sweet Tea and savor the taste of tradition, one sip at a time. Cheers to the South, to strawberries, and to the timeless joy of sharing good food and good company with those we hold dear.