Food: Make Time for Chai

Chai is the word for tea in many parts of the world. Chai from India is a spiced milk tea that has become increasingly popular throughout the world. The spices used vary from region to region and among households in India. You can certainly find commercially produced pre-mixed chai blends, but nothing tastes more refreshing and satisfying than a fresh cup of chai (and makes the house smell yummy!). Here is a recipe for easy to make Homemade Chai.

Homemade Chai

(Serves 2)

Ingredients:

• 2 green cardamom pods, lightly crushed
• 1/4 tsp. black peppercorns
• 2 cloves
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 1/2 inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and thinly sliced
• 2 cups water
• 2 tbsp. sugar
• 2 bags of black tea (Assam or Darjeeling) 
• 3/4 cup milk or soy milk

Directions:

1. Bring spices, ginger, and water to a boil in a saucepan and reduce to a simmer until liquid becomes aromatic (approximately 15 minutes). Whisk in sugar, then add in tea bags and let steep off of heat for 3 minutes. 
2. Strain tea mixture through a fine strainer into a serving pot. 
3. Heat milk over medium heat until just simmering and then whisk until frothy. 
4. Pour into serving pot, stirring well to combine. Enjoy!