DRINK: Chai. My Recovery Tea

Someone, ahem, recently reminded me to do everything to help my sh*tty joints. If I can treat things through food, all the better.

---

Chai. Not chai tea.

A unique earthy, flavorful tea full of spices with anti-inflammatory and stomach soothing properties. Originally of Masala.

Many variations, so play around with the recipe until you find your favorite. I stole this from Elsa, who got me into making this in the first place.

BTW, this is my favorite tea to use: From Tea India on Amazon

Okay, straight to it!

What You'll Need

I never actually make 1 mug at a time, but it's easier to multiply than divide. And technically you can in a small saucepan.

• 1 standard mug Water (spices are per mug)

• 1 tea bag or quarter sized palm Assam black tea (or any strong black tea, rooibos for non-caffeinated, or go without if you just want the tasty spices)

• 1 quarter sized slice Ginger

• 1/2 Cinnamon stick (snap pieces lengthwise if whole, please don't take a hacksaw to one)

• 2 Cardamoms

• 1-2 Cloves

• 3-4 Black pepper corns

• 5-6 Fennel seeds

• 3 finger pinch of Sugar (for color, cut if clashes with diet)

• Oat milk (I prefer oat. regular milk for traditional, or use whatever milk you like, or drink it straight because it's your tea)

For The Daring (TLDR)

1. Sprinkle a little sugar on the bottom of the pot, medium heat until it starts to bubble

2. Immediately add in water

3. Add all spices

4. Simmer for 20 - 60 mins (I go 60. Like a boss.)

5. Turn off heat, add tea, wait 3-4 mins (3 for loose, 4 for bagged)

6. Strain and serve (milk and additional sugar optional, I use my french press to strain because strainer+another pot is too much work)

If you make a big batch like me, bottle asap and then let cool on counter before refrigerating. Try to drink within 1 week.

Thank you to my friend Elsa for showing me this. If you're into mind blowing jazz, check her out: elsanilssonmusic.com

- TC