MASALA CHAI
4 to 5 servings
This sweet and creamy Indian drink with an enticing combination of spices is popular the world over. Be sure to use a strong black tea, such as Assam—the flavor of lighter teas will be lost among the spices and milk.
Bring just to a boil in a medium saucepan:
- 3 cups water
- 1 ½ cups milk
- ½ cup sugar, or to taste
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 16 green cardamom pods, crushed
- 1 teaspoon whole cloves
- ½-inch piece ginger, thinly sliced
- ½ teaspoon black peppercorns
Remove from the heat, cover, and let stand for 20 minutes. Return to a simmer, then remove from the heat and stir in:
- 2 tablespoons black tea leaves
Cover and let stand 2 minutes. Strain and serve at once. Or let cool and serve over ice.