Chai Latte

One of Shanna Ree’s favorites for her birthday! Light a fire, curl up in a big chair, and savor this creamy, spicy tea on a chilly winter’s day. Tea has lots of anti-oxidants. Use local honey to help prevent allergies. Cheers!

1 c water
2 cardamom pods, crushed
½ stick cinnamon, lightly crushed
3 whole black peppercorns, crushed
2 whole cloves, crushed
½ t crystallized ginger, chopped finely
2 T high quality loose decaffeinated black tea, or green if you like
3 c skim milk
2 T honey (or more if you like it sweet)
Whipped cream (optional)
1/8 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)

Bring water, spices (from cardamom to cloves), ginger, and tea to boil. Reduce heat to a simmer for 20-30 minutes until liquid is reduced to approximately ½ cup and starts to thicken. Watch so that you do not boil off all water. Strain out all solids, set aside. Heat the milk and honey on medium heat, until very hot. Do not boil. Mix tea syrup and milk mixture together. Pour into two mugs. If desired top with whipped cream and sprinkle with cinnamon.