Southern Sweet Tea

6 regular tea bags
pinch baking soda
2 c. boiling water
1 1/2 to 2 cups sugar
6 c. cold water

1. In a large glass measuring cup, place the tea bags and baking soda.

2. Pour the boiling water over the tea bags. Cover and steep for 15 minutes.

3. Remove tea bags and DO NOT SQUEEZE THEM.

4. Pour the hot tea mixture into a 2-qt pitcher and add the sugar, stirring to dissolve.

5. Add the cold water and stir. Let cool, then chill in the refrigerator.

Serve over ice.