Ingredients

• 2 cups water
• 1 cup milk (optional, depending on preference)
• 2-3 tbsp black tea leaves (or 2 black tea bags)
• 4 whole cardamom pods
• 4 whole cloves
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 piece fresh ginger (approx. 2 cm), thinly sliced
• 2-3 tbsp sugar or honey (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)

Directions

1. Pour the water into a saucepan and add the cardamom pods, cloves, cinnamon stick, and ginger. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then let simmer for about 5 minutes so the spices release their aromas.
2. Add the black tea leaves or tea bags to the mixture, and let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the milk and sugar, and stir until the sugar is dissolved. Bring the mixture up to near-boiling, but do not let it boil over.
4. If you want extra flavor, add the vanilla extract and stir gently.
5. Remove the pot from the heat, and strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove tea leaves and spices.
6. Pour the freshly strained chai tea into cups, and serve hot.

Tips and variations

For a vegan version of chai tea, you can replace the milk with almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk. If you prefer a more intense flavor, you can add a star anise or a few black peppercorns to the mixture. Adjust the sugar to achieve the perfect balance between sweetness and spice to suit your taste.