Tea is one of the simplest warm drinks to make and comes in many forms from different parts of the world.

Most Western-world teas are made by soaking tea leaves boiling water and, depending on preference, have milk, cream, sugar/sweetener added.
If you prefer loose teas, boil the water and tea, then strain it into a cup.

Chai tea originates from India and contains Orange Pekoe tea leaves, milk, water, tea leaves, and a masala, with an option to replace water with milk.
The masala is made out of cinnamon, cardamom, fennel, and cloves, with the amount of each ingredient variable to personal tastes.
Add ginger and black pepper to help your immunity and stay safe against the flu season.

Ingredients

·         1 ¼ cup milk OR varying amounts of water and milk adding up to 1 ¼ cup based on preference

·         1 tsp  Indian Chai Masala (recipe below)

·         1 – 2 tbsp Orange Pekoe tea leaves or 1 Orange Pekoe teabag

·         2 tsp grated ginger (optional)

·         A pinch of black pepper (optional)

Directions

1.      Add the milk into a cold pot and heat it over high heat.

2.      As the milk begins to warm, add the Chai Masala and the tea leaves/teabag, as well as any other optional add-ins.

3.      Boil this mixture until the milk begins to rise, and then immediately remove from heat.

4.      Pour into mug of choice and enjoy.

Indian Chai Masala – makes 1 cup

Ingredients

·         1-2 sticks cinnamon

·         15-20 green cardamom

·         6-8 black cardamom

·         2 tbsp cloves

·         ½ cup fennel

Directions:

1.      Add all the items into a spice grinder.

2.      Grind, and then store in an airtight container for as long as desired.

Harshul is a Mississauga resident who’s passions include cooking, learning about food. spending time with his family, as well as playing the guitar and trumpet.
He first began baking at the age of 8, and hasn’t stopped since!