How does one make chai tea at home? My sis-in-law once gave me some that was bought in a store. My daughters once took me to a coffee shop where I had a cup. If I put hot water through a coffee filter with sweet spices (such as those used for pumpkin or apple pie) and a dash of black pepper, then steep a tea bag in it, then add milk and sugar, would I get what I'm looking for?
I thought about my childhood a bit this morning. I was very lonely as a child. I was not well-liked in school and didn't have much friendship. Maybe I didn't know how to be a friend. I was probably an annoying kid. My parents had problems. My dad had schizophrenia, and for many years my mom didn't understand what was wrong or how to deal with it. Of course, life must go on. Every once in a while I still have to stop and think how to deal with some of the things that affected my personality, way of thinking, responding, and dealing with life. |
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In a sauce pan with a tight fitting lid combine the following:
8 cups water
6-10 quarter sized slices of fresh ginger root
10-15 cardamom pods, cracked open
1 teaspoon of fennel seeds
4 cloves
1 or 2 pieces of dried orange rind
8-10 black peppercorns
Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer, covered for at least 20 minutes. Simmer longer for a richer, spicier flavor. This tea can be sweetened with raw honey. You can also add almond milk or coconut milk or add one green tea bag for a stronger tea.
Simple Chai
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1 1/2 cups water
1/2 inch cinnamon stick
4 cardamom pods
4 cloves
Optional:
1/2 teas fennel or anise seed
black peppercorn
1/2 bay leaf
coconut milk in place of some water
Put the water in a pan. Add the ingredients and bring to a boil. Cover, turn heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes. Strain the tea into cup and serve immediately.