Indian Masala Chai

There are many versions of this tea. The ingredients used in masala tea differs from one region to another.This is an easy and simple chai recipe which is very soothing and refreshing and is believed to relieve stress quickly.

Ingredients

3 whole cloves
2 cardamom pods
1 cinnamon stick, broken into pieces
2 cups water
1⁄4 teaspoon ground ginger
1⁄8 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
1⁄2 cup milk
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1.5 tablespoon tea powder

Directions

In a mortar, crush the cloves, cardamom pods and cinnamon.
Transfer the crushed spices to a small saucepan, add the water, ginger and pepper and bring to a boil.
Remove the pan from the heat, cover and let steep for 5 minutes.
Add the milk and sugar to the pan and bring to a boil.
Remove from the heat and add the tea.
Cover and let steep for 3 minutes.
Stir the chai, then strain it into a warmed teapot or directly into teacups. Serve hot.