Unlock the cozy flavors of fall with our delightful Vanilla Chai recipe. This warm and aromatic beverage will not only fill your home with the inviting scents of cinnamon and cardamom but will also provide a comforting escape on chilly evenings. Perfect for sipping by the fire or as a morning pick-me-up, Vanilla Chai is a versatile drink that can be enjoyed any time of day. Let’s dive into making this delightful concoction that will surely become a favorite in your household.
**Vanilla Chai**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups of water
– 2 black tea bags
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 4 whole cloves
– 4 cardamom pods
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, thinly sliced
– 1/2 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups of milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– Honey or sugar to taste
**Instructions:**
1. In a small saucepan, bring the water to a gentle boil over medium heat.
2. Add the black tea bags, cinnamon stick, cloves, cardamom pods, ginger slices, black peppercorns, ground nutmeg, and ground cinnamon. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes. This simmering process allows the spices to infuse their flavors into the water.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract and continue to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Pour in the milk and stir gently to combine. Allow the mixture to heat through but avoid boiling.
5. Once the Vanilla Chai is hot and infused with all the flavors, remove it from the heat.
6. Strain the mixture using a fine mesh sieve to remove the whole spices and tea bags. Press gently on the tea bags to extract all the flavors.
7. Sweeten your Vanilla Chai with honey or sugar according to your preference. Stir well to ensure it dissolves completely.
8. Pour the Vanilla Chai into your favorite mugs and serve hot. Feel free to sprinkle a dash of ground cinnamon or nutmeg on top for a decorative touch.
Warm up with this homemade Vanilla Chai, and embrace the soothing blend of spice and sweetness in every sip. Whether you’re looking to create a relaxing evening routine or simply craving a comforting drink, this recipe is bound to become a cherished addition to your repertoire. So, brew a batch, snuggle up in your coziest blanket, and let the flavors of fall envelop you in pure serenity. Enjoy!
