Start by bringing 4 cups of water to a rolling boil in a medium-sized saucepan. Remove from heat and add 4 to 5 black tea bags. Let steep for 5–7 minutes, then remove tea bags and cool to room temperature.

In a separate saucepan, combine 1 cup of hulled and sliced strawberries, ¾ cup of granulated sugar, and 1 cup of water. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring often for 10 minutes, and mash strawberries lightly.

Strain the syrup through a fine mesh strainer into a heatproof bowl or jar, pressing with a spoon to extract juice.

In a large pitcher, combine the cooled tea and the freshly strained strawberry syrup. Stir gently until well mixed. Optionally, add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice.

Place the pitcher in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to chill.

To serve, fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the strawberry sweet tea over the ice. Garnish with additional strawberry slices.

Give the tea a gentle stir before serving to reblend the syrup.