Spices commonly used to make chai
“This recipe is direct from my South Indian mother-in-law’s kitchen. And we think she makes the BEST chai ever!”
Jenni Chacko
To make 1 cup of Chai
Crush together 2 pea size pieces of fresh ginger and 2 cardamom pods. Put 1/2 cup water and 1/2 cup milk into saucepan, add the ginger and cardamom mix. As it is getting hotter, closer to boiling, add 2 teaspoons of black tea leaves and sugar to taste. Boil until it is a smooth light brown colour. Remove from heat and allow to steep for about 5 minutes (don’t let it brew too much). Strain chai and serve.
Once you are feeling more adventurous, these spices are also great in chai:
- nutmeg
- cinnamon
- white or black peppercorns
- star anise
- cloves
Start with small quantities (only about 1/8 teaspoon for one cup of chai) and make to taste.