Making Chai
Each household has its own time tested method of making chai. While there are many variations, chai in its most basic form is black tea that is brewed with a combination of spices (masala) with some milk and sugar.
Chai - Masala Chai - Spiced Milk Tea Recipe:
Ingredients: 2 cups water 1 tablespoon Assam Gold or Classic black tea 1 cinnamon stick 6 whole green cardamom pods, crushed or about 1/4 teaspoon seeds 4 whole cloves Dash nutmeg 1 (1-inch) piece fresh ginger root, peeled and sliced 2 tablespoons sugar 2 cups low fat or whole milk** Preparation: In a large saucepan, add the water, , loose tea, cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, cloves, nutmeg, ginger, and sugar. Bring just to a boil; then cover and reduce the heat to low. Let simmer for approximately 5 minutes depending on how strong a spice flavor you want. Add milk and slowly bring just to simmer (do not boil the milk), then remove from heat. Strain mixture through strainer; press on the spices and tea with a spoon to extract all the fragrant liquids. Makes 3-4 cups.