Chai Tea Homemade ✪

Smart Mix Score: ●●●○○

ⓘ pours 2 mugs

Fragrant black tea brewed with whole spices and simmered in milk for a warming, spiced classic.

Flavor Profile Spiced

Bold and aromatic with layers of cinnamon, cardamom, and clove.

Ingredients

• 2 cups water

• 2 black tea bags (or 2 tsp loose-leaf Assam or Darjeeling)

• 1 cinnamon stick

• 4 green cardamom pods (lightly crushed)

• 4 whole cloves

• 4 black peppercorns

• 1/2-inch piece fresh ginger (sliced or grated)

• 1 star anise (optional)

• 1–2 tbsp sugar, honey, or maple syrup (to taste)

• 1 cup whole milk (or oat/almond milk for dairy-free)

• Pinch of ground nutmeg (optional)

Instructions

1. Boil spices:
   In a small saucepan, bring 2 cups water to a simmer. Add cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, peppercorns, ginger, and star anise. Simmer for 5–7 minutes to infuse.

2. Add tea:
   Add tea bags or loose-leaf tea. Simmer for another 3–5 minutes depending on how strong you like your tea.

3. Add milk & sweetener:
   Stir in the milk and your sweetener of choice. Let it heat gently (do not boil) for 2–3 minutes.

4. Strain & serve:
   Strain the tea into mugs using a fine mesh strainer. Sprinkle with a pinch of nutmeg if desired.

5. Sip warm.
   Pairs well with cookies, cake, or a quiet morning.