Barley Free Spiced Chai Latte
Warming, aromatic, and deeply comforting, this spiced chai latte is the kind of drink that makes you want to curl up with a blanket and forget the world outside. Whole spices — cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, black pepper, and star anise — are simmered together with fresh ginger until the kitchen smells absolutely incredible, building a bold, layered base that no powder or syrup can replicate. Black tea steeps right into that spiced water, then whole milk is gently warmed through to create a rich, creamy finish that feels genuinely indulgent. A drizzle of honey rounds everything out with just the right touch of natural sweetness. Every single ingredient here is straightforwardly grain-free, so there's no need to scrutinize labels or worry about hidden grain-based additives sneaking into your cup the way they sometimes do in café blends and pre-mixed powders. Strain it into your favorite mug, dust with a little cinnamon, and sip it while it's hot — this one is worth every minute on the stovetop.
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Learn more →Ingredients
2 servings
- 1 cup water
- 4 green cardamom pods, lightly crushed
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 4 whole cloves
- 4 whole black peppercorns
- 1 star anise
- 1-inch piece fresh ginger, thinly sliced
- 2 tsp loose-leaf black tea or 2 black tea bags
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1–2 tbsp honey, to taste
For serving
- ground cinnamon, for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Combine the water, cardamom pods, cinnamon stick, cloves, black peppercorns, star anise, and ginger in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes, until the liquid is fragrant and lightly amber.
- 2
Add the black tea (loose-leaf or bags) to the saucepan and steep for 3 minutes, until the brew is deep brown and strongly aromatic.
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