Chai Tea

Instructions

1. Prepare the spices
   Lightly crush the cardamom pods, cloves, and peppercorns using a mortar and pestle or the flat side of a knife. Slice the ginger into thin pieces. This helps release the aromatic oils from the spices.
2. Boil the spices
   In a medium saucepan, combine water, ginger, cardamom, cloves, cinnamon sticks, peppercorns, and star anise. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes to infuse the water with the spices.
3. Add tea leaves
   Add the loose black tea leaves or tea bags to the spiced water. Simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes depending on how strong you prefer your tea.
4. Add milk and sweetener
   Pour in the milk and add honey or sugar to taste. Heat until the mixture is hot but not boiling, about 1-2 minutes. If using vanilla extract, stir it in now.
5. Strain and serve
   Remove from heat and strain the chai through a fine-mesh sieve into cups or a teapot, discarding the spices and tea leaves. Serve hot, with additional honey or sugar on the side if desired.