A Batch from Scratch-- Chai!

A touch of chill is in the air as the Midwest summer starts creeping into fall. Soothe those shivers away with a big mug of hot Chai!! One easy way to make Chai is from the dry powder mixes that are available in stores. I myself prefer to simmer up a batch from scratch!

I won't promise this recipe taste like the Chai you will find in the homes of those who know it best. But after carefully noting the favorite ingredients of a few cooks and a little experimenting in my kitchen, I think I've come up with something pretty yummy.  Let me know what you think! :)

Also.. this is much like the recipes you acquire from your favorite aunt or grandmother.. a little of this.. a little of that.. and a pinch of something else. In other words, this is one recipe you can wing it a little bit and not worry too much that it will be ruined!

Heather's Homemade Milk Chai

2/3 rds cup water (ish)
1 cup milk
5 seeds green cardamon
4 cloves
Smidge of vanilla extract (I think I dumped appx. 1/2 tsp from the bottle)
Appx. 3 Tbsp. sugar -- feel free to add more if you like.
1 cinnamon stick
1 tea bag (I have the yellow label Lipton brand)

Put all ingredients, except the milk, into a sauce pan. Heat on high until it boils. Stir mixture occasionally. When mixture comes to a boil add the milk. Stir consistently to keep the milk from scorching. When the mixture comes to a boil again, remove from heat immediately and let sit for 5 mins until the flavors mingle. Pour into a big mug and enjoy!

Special Notes:
* I use real vanilla extract. When using imitation vanilla my grandma taught me to double the amount the recipe calls for. Old habits are hard to break so yes I do this even if it says double strength on the bottle! lol

*I bought my Lipton tea at the Indian grocery. I learned previously with coffee that a certain brand's coffee is not the same in each country. I don't know if this applies to tea, but why chance that authentic taste!

*As for sugar you can add the amount that you desire. I had a friend tell me that when he was served Chai from the Jordanians they used a large amount of sugar. He believed it to be almost 3/4 cup! I have to wonder if they were making larger batches? Another fun fact he told me was that they served it in what looked like a double size shot glass.

*If you want to add more Cardamon or Cloves go for it! No one is over your shoulder counting ;p