Warm up with fresh chai

By Jill Russell Published: Jan 19, 2012 at 9:58 AM PDT
Warm up with fresh chai
Masala Chai

PCC Natural Market cooks instructor Jayesh Rao shared this great, easy recipe for chai tea. What a perfect way to warm up in this frosty day! 

Masala Chai

10 cardamon pods

15 peppercorns

5 whole cloves

1/4  teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg

1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

5 cups whole milk

5 cups water

8 tea bags (or 8 teaspoons loose black tea)

4 tablespoons sugar (optional)

Preparation

Remove the seeds from the cardamon pods and combine with peppercorns and cloves in a motor and pestle (or spice grinder). Grind into a fine powder and combine with nutmeg and cinnamon. In a large pot, heat milk, water, tea, sugar and ground spices. Stir well to make sure the sugar has dissolved. Bring to a boil (watch for signs of milk burning), and then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.  Make sure to continue stirring throughout the cooking process. Pour chai through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth. Serve in individual cups.