There's something magical about wrapping your hands around a warm mug of spiced chai tea. In the cooler months, I often make a flask of this in the morning, infusing my home with the rich, spicy scent and gifting myself the joy of a warm, nurturing drink throughout the day.
The Wellness Benefits of Chai
Before we dive into the recipe, let's explore why this fusion drink deserves a place in your wellness routine. Traditional chai spices like ginger, cardamom, and cinnamon have been used in Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years. Each ingredient brings its own benefits:
Ginger: Supports digestion and reduces inflammation
Cardamom: Helps balance mood and energy levels
Cinnamon: Stabilizes blood sugar and provides antioxidants
Black Pepper: Enhances nutrient absorption
Cloves: Rich in antioxidants and offers natural pain-relieving properties
Star Anise: Supports respiratory health and aids digestion
The Recipe: Marsala Chai Tea
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Serves: 2 (just increase proportionally to make a larger quantity)
Ingredients
2 cups water
2 black tea bags (preferably Assam)
4 green cardamom pods, lightly crushed
6 whole cloves
2 star anise pods
1 cinnamon stick
1-inch piece fresh ginger, sliced
4 black peppercorns
2 tablespoons sweet Marsala wine (optional)
1/2 cup whole milk or plant-based alternative
Honey or maple syrup to taste
Additional star anise or cinnamon stick for garnish
Instructions
In a pestle and mortar, crush the whole spices to release their essences.
In a small saucepan, combine water with all the whole spices (cardamom, cloves, star anise, cinnamon, ginger, and peppercorns). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes to release the spices' therapeutic properties.
Add tea bags or loose tea and let steep, covered, for 3-5 minutes, depending on desired strength.
Remove tea bags and strain out spices.
Stir in milk and Marsala wine. Re-cover and warm gently but do not boil.
Add sweetener to taste.
Pour into mugs, garnish as preferred and enjoy.
Creating a Mindful Moment
As you prepare this warming drink, take a moment to engage all your senses. Notice the aromatic spices filling your kitchen, particularly the sweet liquorice notes from the star anise mingling with the warm, spicy cloves. Watch the golden color deepening as the tea steeps, and observe the gentle swirl of milk as it meets the spiced brew. This isn't just about making tea – it's about creating a ritual that grounds you in the present moment.
Storage & Tips
The spice mixture can be prepared in advance and stored in an airtight container.
For a caffeine-free version, substitute rooibos tea or decaffeinated black tea.
The Marsala adds a subtle sweetness and depth, but can be omitted.
Leftover chai can be refrigerated and enjoyed over ice the next day or stored for up to 5 days in the fridhe..
Star anise and cloves are potent spices – adjust quantities to taste.
Remember, wellness isn't just about what we consume – it's about how we consume it. Take time to savour this aromatic blend, and let its warming properties nourish both body and spirit.
Enjoy x
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