Ingredients:
- 2 cups (480 ml) water
- 2 teaspoons loose black tea or 2 black tea bags
- 1-2 tablespoons (10-20 g) sugar (to taste)
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 4 green cardamom pods, crushed
- 4-5 slices of fresh ginger
- 3-4 whole cloves
- 1 cup (240 ml) milk
Instructions:
- In a small saucepan, bring the water to a boil over medium heat.
- Once boiling, reduce heat and add the black tea and spices (cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, cloves).
- Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5-7 minutes to develop flavor.
- Stir in sugar and adjust to taste.
- Remove from heat and strain the chai mixture into another saucepan or mug, discarding solids.
- In a separate saucepan, heat milk over medium heat until steaming (not boiling).
- Whisk the milk vigorously or use a frother to create foam if desired.
- Pour the spiced chai base into mugs, topping with steamed milk and stirring gently.
- Optional: Garnish with extra cinnamon or nutmeg.