Masala Chai is more than just a tea; it's a warm hug in a cup, a symphony of spices that dance on your palate, and a tradition that brings people together. Originating from the Indian subcontinent, this spiced tea has transcended borders, warming hearts and homes around the world. In this rendition, we invite vanilla and honey into the mix, softening the robust spices and introducing a creamy sweetness that lingers after every sip. The aroma of simmering spices fills the air, promising comfort and a moment of tranquility in your busy day.

Ingredients

Serving Size

• Serves 4

From Your Pantry

• 4 cups Water
• 2 Black Tea Bags or 2 tablespoons Loose Black Tea Leaves
• 4 tablespoons Honey
• 1 Vanilla Bean (or 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract)

Additional Grocery Items Needed

• 2 Cinnamon Sticks
• 4 Green Cardamom Pods
• 4 Cloves
• 2 Star Anise
• 1-inch piece of Fresh Ginger, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup Milk (Dairy or Plant-Based)

Preparation

1. Begin by gently crushing the cinnamon sticks, cardamom pods, cloves, and star anise to release their flavors. Avoid grinding them into a powder; you're just looking to crack them open slightly.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine water and the crushed spices along with the thinly sliced ginger. Split the vanilla bean lengthwise and scrape the seeds into the pan, adding the bean pod as well. If using vanilla extract, wait to add it until later.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the spices to infuse their flavors into the water.
4. Add the black tea and simmer for another 5 minutes. If using vanilla extract instead of a bean, add it now along with the honey, stirring well to combine.
5. Stir in the milk and return to a near boil, then immediately remove from heat. Avoid boiling the milk to prevent it from scalding.
6. Strain the masala chai through a fine sieve into a teapot or directly into cups. Serve hot, inviting each person to sweeten further with honey as per their taste.

Expert Tips

• For a stronger tea, increase the steeping time of the black tea leaves. However, be mindful not to oversteep as it can turn the chai bitter.
• Experiment with the milk to water ratio according to your preference for creaminess.
• This chai can be made vegan by using plant-based milk. Almond milk and oat milk are excellent for their creamy texture and subtle flavors that complement the spices.

Serving Suggestions

This Elevated Masala Chai pairs beautifully with light, buttery pastries or traditional Indian sweets like Jalebi or Gulab Jamun. For a more casual setting, enjoy it with biscuits or simple toast, letting the complex flavors of the chai be the star. It's perfect for a serene morning start, a soothing afternoon break, or as a delightful end to your evening meal.

Nutrition Facts per Serving

• Calories: 120
• Protein: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fat: 3g
• Sodium: 50mg
• Allergens: Dairy (can be substituted with plant-based milk)

We encourage you to share this recipe with your loved ones and inspire them to embark on their culinary journey. Feel free to tweak the spices, adjust the sweetness, or experiment with non-dairy milks to tailor this masala chai to your taste. Each cup is an opportunity to explore new flavors and make this traditional beverage distinctly yours.