Homemade Chai Tea

It was my godmother who first introduced me to chai and it was love at first taste. It was the mouthful of blends that got me. I'm all for big flavors. I love it so much that the Baristas from my usual Espresso Americano shop already know my order "vanilla chai with two Splenda, scalding hot." But once I noticed as my chai was being prepared, that what they use is a powdered mix and I thought, if the powdered version is this good imagine the real, homemade version! I immediately went online and started my hunt for chai recipes. This one, the one I'm sharing with you is my synthesis of a bunch, and believe me, its utterly delicious!

For 2 to 3 cups of chai you'll need:

3/4 cup water

1 1/4 cup evaporated milk

1/2 cinnamon stick

1 tbsp black tea

1/2 tsp vanilla extract

1/4 inch fresh ginger

1 tbsp honey

6 black peppercorns

6 whole cloves 

5 whole cardamom pods

1 bay leaf 

Step 1: With the help of a spoon, slightly open the cardamom pods and crush the black peppercorns. Peel and slice the ginger.

Step 2: Add all the ingredients into a medium-sized saucepan. Except the vanilla extract. Bring to a boil and allow this to boil for 5 minutes. Stir occasionally. 

Step 3: Remove from heat and add the vanilla extract. Allow to steep for about 10 minutes. 

Step 4: Using a strainer pour chai into mugs. Now go to a comfy place and enjoy!