Chai

Ventured out this past weekend to my local Indian market and finally got the ingredients to make Chai.  I was floored by the the variety of smells and myriad of spices, teas, compotes, some of which, I've never seen or have the slightest idea of how they're used.  

I met a woman there that gave me great advice on the brands of tea to buy as well as what spices to use, and they go as follows:

Taj Mahal  (orange pekoe black tea) // or Darjeeling

Fennel Seeds

Clove

Ginger (fresh or powdered)

Cinnamon (sticks or powdered)

Cardamon Pods (green)

Milk (what ever kind you prefer)

Sugar

For a single large cup I use 2 teaspoons of tea, a pinch of fennel seeds, about five cloves, equal parts of ginger to cinnamon (powdered), and 3 cardamon pods (smashed).

Boil it all together and let it steep for a few mins. to let all the flavors out and strain.  

This is only one version to try but you can always change the proportions to fit your cup of tea. mmmm, so good for you!