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.