When preparing fruit-infused sun tea, when is it generally recommended to add ingredients like citrus slices or berries?
Answer
After the initial tea infusion is complete and the tea is strained, or right before chilling.
Incorporating fruit elements like citrus slices or berries during the long steeping period can lead to textural and flavor degradation of the fruit itself. If left too long, the fruit may break down excessively, potentially releasing unwanted textures or overly intense flavors into the infusion. To maintain the integrity of both the tea and the added fruit flavorings, the recommended practice is to strain out the tea first, and then introduce the fresh fruit ingredients either immediately before the rapid chilling process or after straining the tea, allowing for a quick flavor enhancement without extended exposure to room temperature.

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