In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups of sliced fresh strawberries, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and 1 cup of water. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 30 minutes or until the strawberries soften and the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and use a fine mesh strainer to collect the syrup, discarding the solids. Allow the strawberry syrup to cool completely.

In a separate saucepan, boil 2 cups of water over high heat. Once boiling, remove from heat and add 5 black tea bags, letting them steep for 5 minutes. Discard the tea bags and stir in 1/4 cup of granulated sugar until dissolved.

In a large pitcher, pour the cooled strawberry syrup, brewed tea, 4 cups of cold water, and 1/4 cup of fresh lemon juice. Stir the mixture well to ensure all ingredients are fully combined. Taste and adjust sweetness or lemon juice as desired.

Fill tall glasses with ice cubes and ladle the prepared iced tea over the ice. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and a few slices of strawberry, creating an inviting drink.