Classic Indian Chai
Modified by Linda and named Lindian Chai™
As seen on the Sonoran Living program.

There is nothing like a cup of freshly brewed Chai. Chai means tea in India. Though many people in India drink Chai all day long, it is traditionally served after a meal. Many herbs in this blend aid the digestive system. Both stimulating and calming, it brings a sense of balance while delivering great flavor!

In India, there are many variations of chai, from the most simple, using only one or two spices, to the most complex, using seven or more spices. When at my in-laws house in India, it would be typical to make chai with only cardamom as the spice, which is delicious as well.

The recipe I have written here is a very rich blend of flavors that is well received by all. Even our friends from India love my chai. I call it Lindian™ Chai (Linda’s version of Indian). I am sure you and your friends will enjoy this recipe as well. It is great to make for a party as well.

This re-heats well, so you could make some extra in the morning and reheat a cup later in the day. It will keep for a couple of days in the refrigerator.

Ingredients:

To make one cup (12-14 oz):

8 oz	filtered water.
1/2 t.	cinnamon chips (or 1/3 stick, broken up)
1/2 t.	green cardamom pods, whole
1/4 t.	cloves, whole
1/4 t.	cardamom seeds (from inside the green pods)
1/4 t.	dry ginger root, small pieces, optional
1/4 t.	peppercorns (black, white or pink – or mixture!) optional
1/4 t.	allspice berries, whole (2-3 berries)
1/4 t.	black tea leaves (regular or decaf.)
6 oz.	milk
to taste	sugar or other sweetner

NOTE: All the spices used are NOT powdered. They are whole or are in small pieces. If you have access only to a powdered form for one of the ingredients, you may want to reduce the quantity just a bit.

Method:

In a saucepan (with a pour spout if you have one), put in water and all the spices and simmer covered for about 5-10 minutes. Add the tea leaves and the milk and continue cooking until milk froths. Do NOT cover this time and watch the pot carefully so that the milk does not froth over the top!. This will take another 5-10 minutes. Sweeten to taste. In India, lots of sugar is used. I like to cut the sugar used by mixing stevia in with the sugar. Strain into a cup and serve hot.

Enjoy!