“Chai” is actually the Hindi name for tea, and is itself derived from “cha” which is the Chinese word for tea. Basically, by definition, chai simply means “tea”. A few tea bags, spices, milk, and sweetener are all you need to make this soul-soothing cup of chai.
INGREDIENTS
- 6 cups water
- 12 black tea bags
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 thumb sized piece of fresh ginger, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp orange zest
- 10 whole cardamom pods or 60 cardamom seeds
- 3 whole star anise pods
- 20 whole cloves
- 20 whole black peppercorns
- 1 tbsp freshly ground nutmeg
- 1 cup brown sugar, adjust to taste
- 1 vanilla bean, or 2 tbsp vanilla extract
METHOD
- Bring water to a boil.
- Add tea bags, spices and vanilla bean (if using extract, hold off until the end to add it.) Remove from heat and let steep 15-20 minutes, longer, depending on how strong you want it.
- Strain and add the brown sugar and vanilla extract if using. Stir to combine.
- Mix ½ cup concentrate with ½ cup any type of milk. Heat on stovetop. Keep refrigerated. Enjoy for up to 2 weeks.
Leave a comment