Royal Milk Tea

Instructions

1. Prepare the tea leaves
   Place the loose-leaf black tea in a medium saucepan. If using any optional spices like cardamom pods, cinnamon stick, or ginger slices, add them now.
2. Add water and bring to simmer
   Pour the water into the saucepan with the tea leaves and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Do not let it reach a rolling boil as this can make the tea bitter.
3. Simmer the tea
   Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and continue to simmer gently for about 3-4 minutes to extract a strong tea flavor. The liquid will reduce slightly and become more concentrated.
4. Add milk and sugar
   Pour in the milk and add sugar. Stir well to combine and dissolve the sugar. Continue to heat the mixture on low heat for another 3-4 minutes until it's hot but not boiling.
5. Strain and serve
   Remove from heat and strain the tea through a fine-mesh strainer into cups or a teapot. If using vanilla extract, stir it in now. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, rich texture that distinguishes Royal Milk Tea.