1. Bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a small pot or microwave. Remove from heat and steep tea bags for 10 minutes, then discard the tea bags. Stir in ¼ teaspoon baking soda if using, to help reduce any bitterness.
2. Dice strawberries and puree them in a food processor or blender. Strain the puree through a fine mesh strainer to extract about 1 cup of strawberry juice, discarding the seeds and pulp.
3. In a large pitcher, combine the brewed tea, strawberry juice, and granulated sugar. Stir until sugar is completely dissolved.
4. Add 4 cups of cold water and mix well. Taste and adjust sweetness or add strawberry extract or lemon juice if desired.
5. Refrigerate until thoroughly chilled.
6. Serve over ice; frozen strawberries can be used instead of ice cubes to keep the drink cold without diluting flavor. Garnish with fresh strawberries or mint as preferred.