Yoga in Daily Life Brisbane Blog

Chai - how to make the real thing!

 

Chai-spices

 

There are many uplifting ways to start the day. One of them is with a good Chai. I mean the real thing, not some sugar syrup or a tea bag. The spices must be fresh ground in the moment, otherwise they loose their special flavour and nutrition. Here's a recipe to get you started...

 

Chai for Two (The real thing)

 

1 heaped tsp. Cardamon Pods (alternatively, 1 heaped tsp. grated fresh ginger)
1/4 tsp. Black Pepper Corns
1/4 tsp. Cloves
Pinch of ground Nutmeg (optional)
1/4 tsp. Fennel Seeds (optional)
2 wings of Star Anise (optional)
2 tsp. Loose Leaf Tea
2-4 tsp. Raw Sugar (to tase)
1 Cup Milk / Soy Milk
1 Cup Water

 

In a coffee/spice grinder, grind all dry spices. Alternatively, use a Mortice & Pestal. In a saucepan add all ingredients. On low-medium heat, bring to a boil. (stirring from time to time). Keep a gentle rolling boil for no more than one minute*. Remove from the heat and let sit for another a minute. Use a fine tea strainer to pour into cups.

 

* If using Soy Milk, do not boil, just bring to boiling point and let sit for two/three minutes. Soy Milk ends to sour when you boil it.