Hot Chai Latte Recipe

Toast spices

In a dry small skillet over medium heat, toast the crushed cardamom pods, cloves, peppercorns, cinnamon stick, and star anise (if using) for 30–60 seconds until aromatic. Shake skillet constantly to avoid burning.

Combine water, toasted spices, sliced ginger, and toasted tea leaves in a small saucepan. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat (do not boil vigorously) and simmer for 5 minutes to extract flavors.

Reduce heat to low, add whole milk and brown sugar. Stir to dissolve sugar. Warm gently (do not boil) for 3–4 minutes so the milk infuses with the spices and tea and the chai develops a rich color and aroma.

Turn off heat and let the mixture steep for 5 minutes with the lid on to strengthen flavor. Taste and add honey or maple syrup if additional sweetness is desired. Strain the concentrate through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a heatproof container, pressing on solids to extract liquid. Discard solids.

You should have approximately 2 cups of chai concentrate. Use 1 cup concentrate per serving (see 'For Each Cup' section). The remaining concentrate can be refrigerated for up to 3 days; reheat gently before using.

Measure 1 cup of the warm chai concentrate into a small saucepan (or heat in microwave if preferred) and warm to about 60–70°C (140–160°F). Do not boil.

In a separate small milk pitcher or saucepan, steam or heat 1 cup of your chosen milk until it is very hot and produces small bubbles at the edge. If you have a steam wand, texture the milk to create microfoam. Alternatively, heat milk on the stove until just below boiling, then froth with a handheld frother or by shaking vigorously in a tightly sealed jar for 30–60 seconds.

Pour the warmed chai concentrate into a mug (approximately 8–10 oz capacity). Gently pour the steamed milk over the concentrate, holding back foam with a spoon, then spoon foam on top as desired. Aim for roughly a 1:1 ratio of concentrate to milk.

Dust with a pinch (about 1/4 tsp) of ground cinnamon and a light grating of fresh nutmeg if desired. Serve immediately.