Chai I

Directions

1. 1
   Combine the water, tea, masala, cardamom, and 1 teaspoon of the sugar in a large saucepan and simmer over low heat for 5 minutes.
2. 2
   Add the milk and the rest of the sugar.
3. 3
   Add the ginger 1 to 2 minutes after that, or when the mixture is back to a simmer.
4. 4
   Wait for 15 to 30 seconds and then strain the pot into 2 cups.
5. 5
   NOTE: The tea masala is a premade spice mixture of ground black pepper, ground cardamom, ground cloves, and ground cinnamon.
6. 6
   It is available at most Indian food markets; you can also create your own, depending on your taste.
7. 7
   VARIATION: To make Chai I without milk and sugar, combine the water, tea, masala, and cardamom in a large saucepan and simmer over low heat for 5 minutes.
8. 8
   Add the ginger, wait 15 to 30 seconds, and then strain the tea into 2 cups.