Masala Chai

Masala Chai is a hot, sweet, spiced tea that is very common in India. Depending on the spices used it can be very warming and is wonderful to drink on cold, grey winter days.

After experimenting with various spice blends, this has become my favorite recipe.

2 cups water
1 inch slice of crushed fresh ginger 
I cinnamon quill
3 green cardamom pods
2-3 whole  black peppercorns
3 whole cloves (optional)
1 tsp fennel seeds (optional)
1/2 tsp ajwain (optional) can be purchased at your local Indian food market
2 dessertspoons dark muscovado or organic raw sugar
1 cup full cream organic milk
3 tsp unperfumed black tea

Lightly crush cardamom pods, cinnamon quill and peppercorns in a mortar and add to water along with lightly crushed ginger, whole cloves, fennel seeds and ajwain.

Bring to boil and simmer for a few minutes

Remove from heat and let the spices infuse their flavour for about 5 minutes

Return to heat, add tea leaves and bring back to the boil and simmer for one minute (depending on how strong a tea flavour you prefer)

Add milk and sugar and bring to boil.

Remove from heat and chai is ready, strain in to a warmed teapot or directly in to cups.

Enjoy!

Chai recipes vary from person to person, so don't be afraid to experiment and find the blend that suits you.