Pour 8 cups of filtered or cold water into a 2-quart glass pitcher or large jar.

Add 8 to 10 tea bags or 3 tablespoons loose leaf tea directly into the water.

Cover the pitcher loosely with a lid, plate, or coffee filter to keep out debris.

Place the pitcher in direct sunlight on a south-facing windowsill or patio.

Steep undisturbed for 3 to 4 hours, checking color after 3 hours.

Once the tea reaches a deep amber color, strain out tea bags or leaves through a fine mesh strainer.

Press gently on the tea bags or leaves with a spoon to extract remaining liquid and discard them.

Refrigerate or serve immediately over ice with optional lemon slices, mint leaves, or honey for sweetening.