# Components:
→ Spices
01 - 4 green cardamom pods, lightly crushed
02 - 1-inch fresh ginger root, sliced
03 - 1 small cinnamon stick
04 - 2 whole cloves
05 - 4 black peppercorns
→ Tea
06 - 2 teaspoons loose black tea (Assam or Darjeeling preferred)
→ Sweetener and Milk
07 - 2 cups whole milk (or dairy-free alternative)
08 - 1 cup water
09 - 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (or to taste)
# Preparation steps:
01 - In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of water with the crushed cardamom pods, sliced ginger, cinnamon stick, whole cloves, and black peppercorns. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium heat.
02 - Reduce the heat to low and allow the spices to simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes, enabling their aromatic oils to fully release into the water.
03 - Incorporate the loose black tea into the simmering spice-infused water and continue to simmer for an additional 2 minutes.
04 - Pour in the whole milk (or your chosen dairy-free alternative) and the granulated sugar. Increase the heat slightly to bring the mixture just to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low. Allow the chai to simmer for a further 2 minutes, stirring intermittently to prevent scorching.
05 - Carefully strain the brewed chai through a fine-mesh sieve directly into serving mugs.
06 - Serve the chai latte hot. For an enhanced aroma and visual appeal, consider garnishing each mug with a delicate sprinkle of ground cinnamon or nutmeg.
