Organic Chai Tea Latte Recipe

Prepare spices

Lightly crush the cardamom pods with the flat side of a knife (no need to pulverize). Break the cinnamon stick into smaller pieces if large. This releases the oils.

In a small saucepan combine 2 cups water, sliced ginger, crushed cardamom, cloves, peppercorns, cinnamon stick, star anise (if using), and grated nutmeg (if using). Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat.

Reduce heat to low and simmer the spice mixture uncovered for 8–10 minutes. This extracts the spice flavors; simmer longer (12–15 minutes) for a stronger concentrate.

Add the black tea leaves (or tea bags) to the simmering spice infusion. Turn off the heat and let tea steep with the spices for 3–4 minutes for strong flavor. If you prefer very strong chai reduce steep time to 2–3 minutes to avoid bitterness.

Stir in 1 cup whole milk and 2 tablespoons sugar or maple syrup. Return to low heat and warm gently for 1–2 minutes—do not boil once milk is added to avoid scalding. Taste and adjust sweetness.

Strain the concentrate through a fine-mesh sieve into a heatproof container, pressing gently on solids to extract liquid. Discard solids. The concentrate makes roughly 2 to 2.5 cups and can be refrigerated up to 4 days.

Measure 1/2 cup (about 120 ml) of the chai concentrate per serving into a mug or steaming pitcher. If the concentrate is cold from the fridge, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave until hot but not boiling (about 30–45 seconds in microwave).

Heat 1 cup milk (or the amount needed for number of servings) until steaming. For one serving, heat about 1/2 cup milk to produce foam. You can steam with a milk steamer, heat on the stove and froth with a handheld frother, or vigorously shake in a jar and then microwave 15–20 seconds to stabilize foam.

If using vanilla, stir 1 tsp vanilla extract into the warmed milk or concentrate before combining.

Pour the steamed milk over the chai concentrate in a 1:1 ratio (or to taste). Hold back foam with a spoon, then spoon foam on top to finish. For a stronger drink use more concentrate (2:1 concentrate to milk).

Sprinkle a light pinch of ground cinnamon and a touch of nutmeg on top as garnish. Serve immediately.

Storage: leftover concentrate keeps refrigerated in a sealed container 3–4 days. Reheat gently before using.