Chai Masala

Chai Masala for Indian tea and coffee

I am a total tea addict and this is my absolute favourite type of tea. It's very warming, wintry and comforting :)
This masala is very easy to make and smells wonderful when mixed. Very much like an all spice blend.

Ingredients:
1 tea spoon Ground nutmeg
1 table spoon Ground Cinnamon
1 tea spoon Ground black pepper corns
2 tea spoons  Ground Ginger powder
1/2 tea spoon Ground cloves

Preparation method:
Grind all the above ingredient and store them in an air tight jar.

Tip: To keep the masala powder nice and fresh, make it in small batches to retain it's pungency. ( I usually store it in a small jar ( baby food size) 
Lazy masala: Buy all the above whole spices readily ground and mix the right quantity to make up the masala :) ( I like to make my own but cheat with the ginger powder.
You can also add cardamom pods and star anise to this blend if you wish ( I left it out)

How to make masala chai:
1 cup milk
1 cup water
1-1 and 1/2 tea spoons of chai masala
Sugar/ sweetener to taste.
1 and 1/2 tea spoon loose black tea leaves ( you can use a tea bags)
In a pan add the water and chai masala and bring to a boil and let simmer for 2 minutes.
add in the milk and bring to the boil again and let simmer for further 2 mins.
Add sweetener.
Sieve into a mug through a fine mesh sieve and enjoy :)