INGREDIENTS :

• 4 whole cloves
• 2 cardamom pods
• 1 cinnamon stick, broken into pieces
• 3 cups water
• ¹⁄₄ teaspoon ground ginger
• ¹⁄₈ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
• ¹⁄₂ cup milk
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons black tea (decaf is best)

DIRECTIONS

1. In a mortar, crush the cloves, cardamom pods and cinnamon, or use a coffee grinder.
2. Transfer the crushed spices to a small saucepan, add the water, ginger and pepper and bring to a boil.
3. Remove the pan from the heat, cover and let steep for 5 minutes.
4. Add the milk and sugar to the pan and bring to a boil.
5. Remove from the heat and add the tea.
6. Cover and let steep for 3 minutes.
7. Stir the chai, then strain it into a warmed teapot or directly into teacups.
8. Enjoy!