INGREDIENTS:

1. 2 sumac cones (or about 1/2 cup of berries)
2. 4 cups cold water
3. Honey or sugar, to taste

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Prepare the sumac cones. Gently rub or lightly crush the sumac cones to help release their flavor, and place them in a pitcher. Some people skip crushing them to avoid a more sour flavor. Do not rinse the cones, as this can wash away the flavorful malic acid on the berries.
2. Combine and steep. Pour the cold water over the sumac cones in the pitcher. Stir the mixture to help the infusion process.
3. Refrigerate. Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for 12–16 hours, or ideally, overnight. Steeping for longer will result in a stronger flavor. The water will change to a pinkish or reddish hue.
4. Strain the tea. Line a fine-mesh sieve with cheesecloth or a coffee filter and strain the tea into another container. This is crucial for removing the fuzzy hairs from the berries.
5. Sweeten and serve. Stir in honey or sugar to your liking. Serve the tea chilled and maybe over ice!
6. The finished tea has a pleasant, lemonade-like flavor. The tea will last for 2–3 days if kept in a covered glass container in the refrigerator :-)