There is nothing – and I do mean nothing – that compares with steeping whole spices and tea leaves to make an authentic pot of fragrant, spicy, sweet homemade chai.
I’ve enjoyed plenty of powdered chai in coffee shops and I’ve brewed my own a few times with chai-flavored teabags and mixes. I’m warning you now, once you’ve made real chai you will never be as happy with the other versions.
Easy Chai
I heard about my brother-in-law’s homemade chai for a few years before it finally worked out for me to sample it at their house.
If you recall, this is the same sister and her husband who introduced me to Spanish Cafe con Leche after they visited Spain almost 15 years ago. When they tell me that something is delicious, I tend to believe them.
Now that I’ve had a chance to make Jason’s recipe for myself, it most certainly does not disappoint. I’ve been making this easy chai in doubled and tripled batches for years now and I love having a jar or two stashed in the fridge.
Served with a plate of Almond Bars, a steaming cup of chai (or an iced chai latte) becomes an afternoon snack that no one turns down.
Chai Ingredients
You’ll need the following ingredients to make this recipe:
- cardamom pods
- whole cloves
- cinnamon stick
- fresh ginger
- black peppercorns
- bay leaf
- loose black tea leaves
- water
- half and half
- light brown sugar or honey
Chai Recipe
Place the cardamom, cloves, cinnamon stick, ginger, peppercorns, and a bay leaf in a medium size saucepan.
Add the water and bring to a boil. Allow this to boil for 5 minutes. Remo