The last recipe I posted revolved around the Asian culture as it has impacted the practice of meditation. However, meditation is also greatly rooted in India as well. What better choice than a soothing cup of Masala Chai Tea that India is so famous for as we sit down to meditate. This aromatic beverage that heightens all your taste buds is wonderful to enjoy either before or after to bring you peace and reflection.
It is enjoyed by millions in India, as Chai Wallas or tea vendors on almost every street corner are known for the art of making this spiced, sweetened black tea mixed with milk. There are many variations to making this special tea, but it most commonly consists of a blend of spices, which often includes cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, pepper, fennel, and star anise. My version has few less ingredients, just because I’m not a fan of some spices like fennel. This simplified version is still quite delicious and the fresh use of spices and brewing tea beats the tea bag version.
Indian Masala Chai Tea
Ingredients
4 whole cloves
2 cardamom pods
1 cinnamon stick, broken into pieces
3 cups water
1⁄4 teaspoon ground ginger
1⁄8 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
1⁄2 cup milk
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
2 tablespoons black tea (decaf is best)
Method
Bring water to boil in a 1 quart sauce pan.
Add the spices, cover and let simmer for few minutes.
Add sugar and milk, stir.
Bring back to just barely boiling (watch pot, milk will bubble over).
Add tea leaves, cover pot, remove from heat.
Steep for 5 minutes.
Pour through filter to remove spices and tea leaves.
