Spiced Milk Tea (Masala Chai)
Chai is a traditional Indian milky tea while “masala chai” refers to the spiced version of it. Quick, easy and oh so tasty, this beverage comes in a number of different combinations.
I don’t usually drink milk tea, BUT the wonderful spices in this hot treat make it a great choice for cold winter nights (or cozy Sunday mornings).
Makes 2 – 4 cups:
- 2 cups water
- 2 cups coconut milk
- 2 – 4 tsp. loose black tea leaves or 2 – 3 tea bags (depending on how strong you want it)
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 1 whole nutmeg
- 2 cardamom pods
- 2 – 3 cloves
- 1/8 tsp. freshly grated black pepper
- 1 Tbsp. freshly grated ginger
- 2 – 4 tsp. light brown sugar, honey, stevia (or any other sweetener of your choice)
Combine water, spices and tea leaves (or tea bags) in a small saucepan and simmer for about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let the mixture rest for another 2 – 3 minutes.
Then add milk and sugar (or other sweeteners) and return on the stove. Bring to a boil (but be careful not to burn it) and remove from heat.
Strain the loose tea and spices and enjoy while steaming hot!
