Creating delicious Southern Peach Tea is straightforward when you follow these steps:

1. Boil Water: In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil.
2. Add Tea Bags: Once boiling, remove from heat and add 4 black tea bags. Let steep for 5-7 minutes.
3. Prepare Peaches: While the tea is steeping, wash, peel, and slice 2 cups of fresh peaches.
4. Make Peach Syrup: In a small saucepan, combine the sliced peaches, 1 cup of sugar, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the peaches soften and release their juices, about 5-8 minutes.
5. Combine: Strain the peach mixture through a fine sieve, pressing to extract the syrup, and discard the solids.
6. Add Syrup to Tea: Mix the peach syrup into the brewed tea. Stir well to combine.
7. Cool: Allow the tea to cool for about 30 minutes at room temperature; then refrigerate until chilled.
8. Serve: Fill glasses with ice cubes, pour in the chilled Southern Peach Tea, and garnish with fresh peach slices and mint leaves.

By following these steps, you’ll have an incredible batch of Southern Peach Tea that is ready for everyone to enjoy!