Description
A warming, aromatic beverage that captures the essence of spice-filled comfort in a cup. This delightful blend of black tea and spices creates a rich concentrate that can be enjoyed hot or iced.
Ingredients
- 5 cups filtered water
- 3-4 tablespoons Assam black tea
- 2-3 cinnamon sticks
- 2-3 star anise
- 12 whole cloves
- 8 green cardamom pods
- 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/3 cup chopped ginger root
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons dark brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional)
Instructions
- Crush the whole spices using a mortar and pestle to release their essential oils.
- Dry toast the crushed spices in a saucepan over low heat for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Add 5 cups of filtered water, chopped ginger, and ground nutmeg to the saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-10 minutes.
- Return the mixture to a boil and remove from heat.
- Stir in the loose Assam black tea and steep for 3-5 minutes.
- Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer into a large bowl or pitcher.
- Stir in sweeteners while the chai concentrate is warm.
- Add vanilla extract.
- Cool at room temperature or refrigerate.
- Store in a glass bottle. To serve, combine with milk for hot or iced chai lattes.
Notes
A great option for personalized sweetness and spice levels. Serve with various milk options for a custom drink.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Indian