This is Chai Country!

Chai is one of the things India is famous for…and this ain’t no Starbucks chai.  This is the real deal.  It’s safe to say I’m obsessed with it – I love it so much.

The recipe is pretty easy, and it’s a pinch of this, a little of that – mostly to taste.  Cardamom is the most essential spice in this tea, but it can be pretty pricey in the States.  Let me know if you want me to bring some back for you!  My friend calls this the “cappuccino of teas”.  It’s a little fancier and a little sweeter and spicier than your normal hot tea.  But I’ll never drink regular tea again, I think it’s that good.

For measuring the milk and water, I use a coffee mug.  The ratio is 2:1.  Two parts milk to one part water.  Pour the liquids into a large saucepan.  Next, the magic.  You’ll need:

1 tsp (or four little clove things) cardamom

1 tsp cloves

A little black pepper (trust me)

1 tsp cinnamon

3 spoonfuls sugar

2 tbsp loose leaf black tea. We use ground tea leaves, but if you can’t find ground it’s totally fine!  Just use less leaves because they’re way stronger.

Again, all these measurements are to taste.  Add more or less of something if you want – everyone makes it a little differently.  After you have all the ingredients in the saucepan, put on medium low heat to steep, stirring occasionally.  After about 10 minutes, bring to a boil.  Remove from heat and enjoy! You’ll need to strain the tea before serving, of course.

Some people love it, some people hate it.  You should try it though!  Indians drink this every single day.  They serve it every Sunday after church; if they have a guest over, they offer this.  It’s just one of the things I love about this culture.

If you're brave enough to try it, I hope you like it!

Getting all fancy with the visuals!