Turmeric Free Spiced Chai Latte
Warm, aromatic, and deeply comforting, this spiced chai latte is the kind of drink that makes a cold morning feel like a treat. The blend of cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, black pepper, star anise, and fresh ginger creates a layered spice profile that is bold without being overwhelming — and every single ingredient earns its place. For anyone avoiding turmeric, café-style chai can be a minefield, since the golden spice sneaks into many commercial blends and pre-made concentrates. This recipe skips it entirely while still delivering that signature warmth and complexity you expect from a great chai. Whole milk rounds everything out with a creamy richness, and a drizzle of honey lets you dial the sweetness exactly where you want it. Simmering the spices in water before adding the tea and milk is the move that makes this taste like it came from somewhere special, not your stovetop. Strain it into your favorite mug, dust with a little cinnamon, and it is ready to drink immediately.
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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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