Masala Chai

Ingredients

7 cardamom pods slightly crushed

3 pieces cinnamon stick about 5cm each

2 tsp chopped ginger

2 star aniseed

4 cloves

6 peppercorns

2 tea bags

1 cup water

1 cup full cream milk

1 1/2 tbsp sugar

Ground Masala

10 cardamom pods

2 pieces cinnamon sticks about 5cm each

2 star aniseed

5 cloves

Method

For the tea, place all the spices, except the ginger, in a pestle and mortar and crush them slightly. Place the spices and the ginger in a saucepan. Add a cup of water and allow it to simmer gently on a low heat. 

Once the water heats up, add the tea bags and simmer until the water changes to a dark brown. Add the milk and bring it to a gentle boil. 

Add the sugar and mix well. The sugar can be adjusted according to your preference. Strain the tea into 2 cups. Froth some milk if your prefer and scoop it on top. Sprinkle about half a teaspoon of the ground masala on top and serve. 

Ground Masala

Roast the spices on a low heat. Allow it to cool. Place it in coffee grinder and grind to a smooth powder. Sprinkle this on top of the masala tea. You can add less or more according to your preference. Store any remaining spice in an airtight container. 

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