Spiced tea, also known as chai, is a popular beverage that originated in India and is now enjoyed worldwide. The combination of spices and tea creates a warm, aromatic and flavorful drink that is perfect for a cozy afternoon or evening. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make spiced tea or chai at home:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of water
- 2 cups of milk
- 2 tablespoons of loose black tea or 4 tea bags
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 3-4 cardamom pods, crushed
- 3-4 cloves
- 1 inch piece of fresh ginger, sliced
- 2-3 black peppercorns, crushed
- Sugar, to taste
Instructions:
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In a pot, bring the water to a boil.
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Add the cinnamon stick, crushed cardamom pods, cloves, ginger, and black peppercorns to the water. Let the spices simmer for about 5 minutes to release their flavor and aroma.
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Add the black tea to the pot and let it steep for 2-3 minutes.
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Add the milk and sugar to the pot and stir everything together.
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Let the chai simmer for a few minutes until it is hot and fragrant.
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Strain the chai through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the spices and tea leaves.
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Pour the spiced tea into cups and serve.
Optional: You can also add a dash of ground cinnamon or nutmeg on top of the chai for an extra touch of spice.
Enjoy your homemade spiced tea or chai!
Alert: While spices can have many beneficial properties for health, using them for medical purposes should be done under the guidance and supervision of a healthcare professional or specialist. Some spices may interact with medications or cause adverse reactions in certain individuals, and it is important to use them safely and appropriately. If you are considering using spices for a medical condition, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before doing so.
