Masala chai Tea

Although masala chai, the famous Indian spiced tea, is popular all year round, it is most potent on cooler days. It is full of warming spices, making it a delicious way to prevent autumn-winter illnesses.

Ingredients for chai masala (serves 4):

1 tsp ginger powder
1 pinch ground black pepper
3 cm cinnamon sticks
3 cloves
2 cardamom pods
half tsp fennel
a pinch of ground chilli (can be omitted)

Additional ingredients:

2 tsp tea grass
5 dl milk (vegetable milk for vegans)
7 dl water
cane sugar or other sweetener to taste

Preparation

Dry-fry the whole spices (cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, fennel) and stir in the powdered spices (black pepper, chilli, ginger). Add the water to the milk, stir in the spices and bring to the boil. After boiling, simmer for 2 minutes and add the tea leaves. Steep for 5-6 minutes, then strain, and finally flavour the tea to taste.

Tip: it is a good idea to make a large portion of the masala at a time and store it in a sealable jar. Wrap it in coloured ribbon and make a homemade gift!