Have you ever experienced that soothing feeling when you take a sip of a beverage and it feels like you’ve covered yourself in a warm, cherished, weather-worn quilt? That’s exactly the sentiment snuggling up with a cup of homemade Murmuring Breezes Chai inspires for me. Attached to it is a delightful fragment of a memory – a time-worn wooden lodge, a window perch with a view of a thick forest, the fluttering of foliage, and my grandmother spinning yarns as she whipped up a pot of her fragrant chai. If you listen intently, you can nearly hear the gentle, simmering melody of the chai brewing on the stove, punctuated by the rhythmic clanking of the teaspoon against the pot. An undeniable warmth fills the air, the sweet scent of spices intertwining with freshly brewed tea, and the comforting texture of the velvety liquid flowing through your fingers clutching a teacup. Each gulp summons images of cinnamon sticks, star anise, and cardamom pods twirling around in a pot of black tea like a delectable ballet. This chai is not just a beverage; it’s a symphony of flavours, a tribute to shifting seasons. As the foliage changes from lively green to hues of charred orange and fiery red, this chai underscores the rhythm of autumn and imparts a feeling of warmth and comfort. It is a tradition, a familial legacy handed down, a recipe that links generations with its soul-calming charm. I must admit, I could never imitate my grandmother’s chai; it always seemed like something was missing. I realized it wasn’t a mysterious ingredient but the tales she shared, the affection with which she prepared it, and perhaps a hint of her magical grandmotherly wisdom. This chai might have originated in the Indian subcontinent, but over time it has journeyed across seas, reaching every nook and cranny of the world, tweaked and adapted to local tastes, creating a universal bond over a shared cup. Originating as a medicinal beverage in ancient India, it has come a long way, becoming a cherished drink gracing kitchen tops and cafe menus globally. Now, it’s your turn to bond with this magical brew and create your memory. Let the medley of spices, the balance of flavours, and the warmth from the brew infiltrate your soul, crafting an intimate connection that outlasts time and space.
Ingredients
- 2 black tea sachets
- 2 measures of water
- 1 measure of full-fat milk
- 2 mini cinnamon quills
- 4 green cardamom seeds
- 1 whole star anise
- 4 whole cloves
- 1 teaspoon of freshly grated ginger
- 2 tablespoons of demerara sugar
Instructions
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Kickstart your journey to solace by pouring water into a pot and setting it on medium flame.
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As the water gradually begins to heat up, crack the cardamom seeds lightly using the blunt side of a knife.
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The soul of the chai is in its spices. Introduce the crushed cardamom, cloves, star anise, and cinnamon quills to the water.
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For a hint of zest, shred fresh ginger directly into the pot.
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Allow this fragrant mixture to simmer gently for about ten minutes, or until the water takes on a welcoming, golden shade.
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Submerge the tea sachets into the golden liquid, prompting the water to draw out the robust flavours of the black tea.
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Pour milk into the pot, lower the heat and let the brew simmer gently for another ten minutes.
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Add demerara sugar for a wonderful caramelized sweetness that balances the spicy notes.
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Once the chai has reached a beautifully creamy and luscious consistency, strain it into your preferred mug.
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Lastly, seek your solace spot, cradle your hands around the warm mug and let the intoxicating aroma stimulate your senses as you take the first soothing sip of your homemade Murmuring Breezes Chai.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 3.5 g
- Fat: 3.9 g
- Carbohydrates: 18.5 g
Final Result
