Masala Chai

• STAFF-FAVORITE

Ingredients

1. 4 whole cloves
2. 2 cardamom pods
3. 1 cinnamon stick, broken into pieces
4. 3 cups water
5. 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
6. 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
7. 1/2 cup milk
8. 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
9. 2 tablespoons black tea, such as Darjeeling or Orange Pekoe

1. In a mortar, crush the cloves, cardamom pods and cinnamon. Transfer the crushed spices to a small saucepan, add the water, ginger and pepper and bring to a boil. Remove the pan from the heat, cover and let steep for 5 minutes.
2. Add the milk and sugar to the pan and bring to a boil. Remove from the heat and add the tea. Cover and let steep for 3 minutes. Stir the chai, then strain it into a warmed teapot or directly into teacups.