Peanut Free Masala Chai

Total time20 min

Prep time5 min

Cook time15 min

4.6

(15)

Few things are as deeply comforting as a mug of spiced chai made entirely from scratch, and this version delivers that warm, aromatic experience in a way that store-bought mixes simply cannot match. Whole cardamom pods, a cinnamon stick, cloves, black peppercorns, and fresh ginger are simmered together until the water turns fragrant and richly tinted — that's where all the depth comes from. Loose-leaf Assam or Darjeeling tea goes in next, building a bold, dark base before the whole milk is added to mellow everything into that signature creamy caramel color. The slow simmer with milk is the key step, coaxing the spices and tea into a beautifully unified flavor rather than a sharp or one-note brew. For anyone navigating nut allergies, this recipe is a genuinely clean option — every ingredient is straightforward and easy to verify, with no hidden blends or mystery powders involved. Strain it into your favorite mug, adjust the sugar to your liking, and settle in.

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Ingredients

4 servings

8 green cardamom pods, lightly crushed
1 cinnamon stick (about 3 inches)
4 whole cloves
6 black peppercorns
1 inch fresh ginger, thinly sliced
1 star anise (optional)
2 cups water
3 tsp loose-leaf black tea or 3 black tea bags (such as assam or darjeeling)
2 cups whole milk
2–3 tbsp sugar, or to taste

Instructions

1
Combine the cardamom pods, cinnamon stick, cloves, peppercorns, ginger, and star anise (if using) in a medium saucepan with the water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes, until the water is fragrant and lightly tinted.
2
Add the black tea and simmer for 2 minutes, until the liquid is a deep amber-brown.

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