This recipe serves 3-4 cups.
Ingredients:
2 cups water
1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
2-3 black tea bags or 2 tablespoons loose-leaf black tea
2-3 whole cloves
2-3 whole cardamom pods
1 cinnamon stick
1 star anise (optional)
1-2 slices fresh ginger
1-2 black peppercorns
2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional, adjust to taste)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Spices by lightly crushing the cloves, cardamom pods, and black peppercorns to release their flavours.
2. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil.
3. Once boiling, add the crushed cloves, cardamom pods, cinnamon stick, star anise, and ginger slices to the water.
Reduce the heat to low and let the spices simmer for 5-10 minutes, allowing their flavours to infuse the water.
4. Add the black tea bags or loose-leaf tea to the simmering water. Let it steep for 3-5 minutes, depending on how strong you like your chai.
5. Pour in the milk and add the honey or maple syrup (if using). Stir well and allow the mixture to heat through without boiling for another 2-3 minutes.
6. Remove the saucepan from heat. Strain the chai tea into cups to remove the spices and tea leaves. Serve immediately, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dash of nutmeg if desired.
Enjoy your warming chai tea on a chilly day!
