Pecan Free Masala Chai
Masala chai is one of those drinks that wraps around you like a warm blanket ā deeply spiced, creamy, and just sweet enough to feel like a treat at any hour of the day. Whole spices like cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and black pepper are simmered low and slow to coax out every bit of their fragrance before the tea even hits the pot. Fresh ginger adds a gentle heat that builds beautifully, and the whole milk transforms the brew into something rich and velvety rather than sharp or thin. This is a recipe where the process is half the pleasure ā watching the liquid deepen to that gorgeous caramel color is genuinely satisfying. Because everything here is built from scratch with whole, recognizable ingredients, there's no need to scan labels or worry about what might be hiding in a pre-made spice blend or flavored mix. Strain it into your favorite mug, adjust the sugar to your liking, and settle in.
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Learn more āIngredients
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
- 2ā3 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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