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Indian Chai - a healthy alternative to hot chocolate



We love to sit by the fire during the winter and drink chai. In fact, this recipe is one of our favorite evening picks. Chai is the Indian word for tea. It is a blended beverage of mixed spices, milk and honey.

There are many different chai blends unique to their region of India but the original recipe was created out of the need for a medicinal and healthy recipe to combat minor discomforts for those without easy access to medical care. Chai can be useful for nausea, indigestion, gas, colic, parasites, headaches, and for eliminating mucus from the body. It is warm and stimulating to the body-- perfect for the average American diet during our winters. Below is our favorite recipe and you will be surprised at just how easy this exotic tea is to make. For a decaffeinated version, simply drop the black tea and substitute with rooibos. All of the ingredients can be found in your local health food store. yum.

Ingredients

1 oz freshly grated ginger root
7 peppercorns
1 cinnamon stick
5 cloves
5 green cardamom pods or 15 decorted seeds
1 pint pure water
1 tbs black ceylon tea
1/2 cup unsweetened soy milk
1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
1/8 tsp vanilla extract
Honey to sweeten (optional)

Directions

In a stainless steel or glass pot add the first six ingredients together and bring to a boil.
Do not let boil and immediately reduce to simmer. Simmer 10 minutes. Add the soy milk and black tea and simmer 10 minutes more. Strain. Add nutmeg and vanilla. Serves 4. Let individuals sweeten with honey as desired.
source: Michael Tierra The Way of Herbs