Chai Tea
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Step-by-Step Instructions
- Bring the Water to a Boil: Start with a base of 3 cups of water in a saucepan and bring it to a rolling boil. This will help infuse the flavors of the spices into the water.
- Add the Spices:
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- Fresh ginger: Add a tablespoon of grated or crushed ginger for a warming, zesty kick.
- Coriander seeds: Add a tablespoon of lightly powdered seeds for an earthy depth.
- Black peppercorns: Crush 10 peppercorns and toss them in for a spicy spark.
- Cinnamon stick: Drop in a small stick for a sweet aroma.
- Fennel seeds: Crush half a teaspoon of seeds to add a hint of sweetness.
- Cardamom pods: Crack open four pods and add both the seeds and skin for that classic chai magic.
Let these spices simmer for about 3 minutes, releasing their rich and fragrant oils into the water.
- Add the Black Tea – Stir in 1 tablespoon of Assam black tea leaves and let the blend steep for 8–10 minutes. The tea will deepen the color and add a robust flavor to your chai.
- Pour in the Milk – Add 1 cup of milk (dairy or plant-based), and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. This creates the creamy texture that makes chai so comforting.
- Add the Saffron – A pinch of saffron elevates the chai with its luxurious aroma and golden hue.
- Sweeten to Taste – Stir in your choice of sweetener—jaggery for a rich, molasses-like flavor or sugar for a more traditional sweetness.
- Strain and Serve – Use a fine mesh strainer to pour the chai into your favorite cup.
