Chai (Indian Tea)

March 15th 2010

Chai is something I began drinking lots more of after my years at Pilani. I still prefer coffee in the mornings, but on weekend afternoons, I love sipping this and reading a book (not been happening lately). I hate to make this for just one person, so my recipe is also for a couple.  Recently the best tea I have had is at the Cedars restaurant in Seattle. Don't miss it for anything in the world.

Difficulty level : Easy

Time: 15 min 

Ingredients

• milk (2 medium size glasses) { Use can use full 2% milk for thick and creamy tea, if you want slightly stronger tea..use 3/4 th milk and 1/4 th water)
• tea powder ( 3 tsps) - really depends on how strong you like your chai
• cardamom (1 )
• clove (2)
• ginger ( 1 inch long)
• sugar ( per taste)

Method de Preparation

1. In a saucepan add the water first and add the spices and tea powder and allow to heat for a little while.
2. Add the milk soon after and allow everything to heat well.
3. When milk is boiling, grate the ginger in and turn off gas.
4. Pour in 2 glasses using a strainer to drain out all the spices and tea powder.
5. Add sugar per taste and sip sip sip. If you can, say 'Wah Taj!' while at it :)

Chef's Tip:  Some people prefer their tea without the ginger. Another option is to use a store bought tea masala if you don't want to use the fresh spices.