Who doesn't like a good cup of chai? It's warm, it's creamy, it's slightly spicy...
But at the same time, it's hard to find the perfect one for you. Some people like a lot of ginger, some want cloves, some people want anise (you monsters!)
So what's the solution? Make your own!
It takes a little time, so it doesn't necessarily work when you're running out the door, but for times when you can really dedicate yourself to the best flavor, this is what you want to do.
Absolutely everything is adjustable to you! I tend to change it for myself with a bit more ginger, but do whatever feels right for you!
Ingredients (makes 2 small or one large mug)
1 ¾ cup water
2 inch long cinnamon stick, broken up
1 ½ inch ginger root, peeled and thinly sliced
8 peppercorns
7 green cardamom pods, lightly crushed
5 whole cloves
3 teaspoons Assam tea
⅛ c sugar
1 ⅓ cup milk
Bring ginger, cinnamon pieces, and water to a boil over medium high heat. Lower the heat to a rapid simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, about 10 minutes (liquid should be reduced by about ⅓. This may take less time if you have a gas stove!)
Remove pan from the heat and stir in peppercorns, cardamom, cloves, and tea. Let steep 2 minutes.
Return the pan to the heat over medium high and stir in milk and sugar. Stir occasionally and cook another 3-5 minutes: the mixture will start to foam up. Remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes. Strain through a sieve and enjoy!
Note: You will often have a “sludgy” layer on the bottom of your cup despite sieving. No worries! It’s just spice residue and is completely drinkable.