“Spices to chai
Only flavor not add,
They do wonders
For the ongoing health fad.
From ginger to cloves
And cinnamon with honey,
The benefits of tea
Are worth every penny.
Drink it warm
Or beat that heat,
Nutrition in a cup
Isn’t that neat?”
1. Cardamom Black Milk Tea
Ingredients (makes 2 cups)
2 cups water
1 ½ cups whole milk
5 green cardamoms, crushed
2 teaspoons sugar
1 ½ teaspoons black tea leaf (I used Liptom Yellow Label)
Bring the water, tea leaves and cardamom to a boil. Once simmering, add the milk and let it simmer for 3-5 minutes, till you see a deep caramel color. Turn off heat, add sugar and leave covered for another minute. Strain and enjoy hot! A lovely winter day treat, enjoyed well with snacks like samosa variations or curried crackers.
2. Chilled Mint & Clove Tea
Ingredients (makes 2 cups)
2 ½ cups of water
1 mint tea bag (I used Twinnings)
8-10 fresh mint leaves
6 cloves, crushed
½ teaspoon brown sugar (optional)
Bring everything to boil in a deep pot. Cook till the quantity is down to 2 cups. Strain and refrigerate overnight in a class container. Garnish with fresh mint leaves before serving. A refreshing & slightly spicy drink for a hot summer day. Pairs well with spicy bites,pilafs, biryanis or simple curries.
3. Sugarfree Ginger & Dates Tea
Ingredients (makes 2 cups)
2 ½ cups of water
5 pitted dates, chopped
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
¼ teaspoon cinnamon
¼ teaspoon fennel powder
½ teaspoon black tea leaves
Bring everything to boil in a deep pot. Cook till the quantity is down to 2 cups. Strain & serve immediately with a teaspoon of milk (optional). Also tastes wonderful the next day if chilled overnight. A naturally sweet & subtly caramel-flavored tea that is my favorite with desserts like parfaits, truffles, traditional milk sweets, seasonal cakes and even brownies!
