Firstly, gather your ingredients. Traditional chai calls for black tea leaves, whole spices like cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and ginger, milk, water, and sweetener. The quality of your ingredients greatly impacts the taste, so opt for fresh, high-quality spices and loose-leaf tea.
Next, begin by simmering the water and adding the spices. Crush the cardamom pods, break the cinnamon stick, and add them to the pot along with the cloves and ginger. Allow the spices to infuse the water for a few minutes, releasing their aromatic flavors.
Finally, strain the chai into cups, discarding the tea leaves and spices. Add your preferred sweetener, such as sugar or honey, to taste. Take a moment to appreciate the beautiful color and aroma of the freshly brewed chai before savoring each sip.
The ritual of brewing chai is not just about the end result, but also about the process itself. It's a moment to slow down, unwind, and connect with the present moment. So, take your time, enjoy the process, and savor the perfect cup of chai that you've brewed with love and care.