In India, chai is a commonly consumed beverage. Each chai vendor creates a different and unique version. Chai is now available here in America too, but when you make your own you can create a much better tasting version, and you can tweak it to your own taste. Other spices that can be used include star anise, cloves, nutmeg, dried orange peel, raw cocoa powder and vanilla bean. Chai can be served both hot or cold.
Masala Chai Tea
(Makes 4 cups)
Ingredients:
- 10 cardamom pods or 1/2 tsp cardamom seeds
- 1 inch cinnamon stick
- 4 white pepper corns
- 1/4 tsp fennel seeds
- 2 cups organic, whole milk, coconut milk or almond milk (homemade nut milks are much healthier and tastier options than store bought)
- 3 tbsp raw honey or stevia to taste
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger or 1 tsp fresh grated
- 2 cups pure water
- 4 bags organic black tea
Directions:
Remove the seeds from the cardamom pods and discard the pods. Dry roast the cardamom seeds, cinnamon stick, peppercorns, and fennel seeds in a hot skillet until they release their fragrance. It will take about 5 minutes. Transfer to a plate to cool. Grind in a spice or coffee grinder.
Put the milk in a medium sauce pan and bring to a simmer. Add the ground spices, honey, and ginger.
Heat the water in another pot and bring to a boil. Turn off the heat and steep the tea bags for three minutes. Pour the tea into the milk mixture and simmer one minute. Let the chai rest for a few minutes.
Strain and serve.
To learn about the health benefits of cardamom and cinnamon, see my article Three Important Spices you really Shouldn’t Live Without.
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