Ingredients:

  • 2 cups water (475ml)
  • 2 tablespoons black tea leaves (or 2 tea bags)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, sliced
  • 3 green cardamom pods, crushed
  • 2 whole cloves
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (to taste)
  • 1 cup milk (240ml) - dairy or a non-dairy alternative (like almond, oat, or soy)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil.
  2. Once boiling, add the ginger, cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon stick. Reduce to a simmer and let steep for 5 minutes.
  3. Add the black tea leaves or tea bags to the spice mixture and continue to simmer for another 5 minutes.
  4. Stir in honey or maple syrup to taste. Remove from heat and strain through a fine mesh strainer into a heat-proof container, discarding solids.
  5. In the same saucepan, heat the milk (and vanilla if using) over medium heat until steaming, but not boiling. Froth with a whisk or milk frother until light and airy.
  6. Divide the chai concentrate into two cups, and top with the frothy milk. Sprinkle with a dash of cinnamon if desired.