Masala Chai is one of my favourite drinks to enjoy in the crisp, colder weather. This version is extra indulgent withe a pinch of saffron to really satisfy the taste buds.
Ingredients for 2 cups
2 cups of water
1″ fresh ginger
2 black peppercorns
2 cloves
2 green cardamom pods
2 small pieces of cinnamon bark
1½ tsp loose assam tea
2 tsp sugar
milk
pinch of saffron
Method
– Add 2 cups of water to a pan and bring to a boil.
– Place the ginger in a pestle and mortar and crush. Add the peppercorns, cloves, cardamom pods, and cinnamon. Crush to a paste.
– Add the crushed spices to the boiling water. Reduce the heat to medium and simmer for 2 minutes.
– Add the tea. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for a further 2 minutes.
– Increase the heat and add the sugar. Mix well and boil for 1 minute.
– Add a splash of milk to taste. Simmer for 2 minutes.
– Add the saffron. Simmer for a final 2 minutes.
– Pour the chai through a strainer into your cup.
Garnish with a few strands of saffron and enjoy!