Tea Recipe

Boil water

Pour 2 cups of fresh cold water into a small saucepan. Place over high heat and bring to a rolling boil.

Add spices (if using)

When the water reaches a boil, add the sliced ginger and the slightly crushed cardamom pods. Reduce heat to medium and simmer for 1 minute to release aroma.

Steep tea

Add 2 tsp loose black tea (or 1 tea bag) to the simmering water. Remove pan from direct high heat so it does not boil vigorously. Let the tea steep for 3 to 4 minutes for medium strength (2–3 minutes for lighter, 5 minutes for stronger). If using a tea bag, gently press it against the side of the saucepan once or twice to extract flavor.

Sweeten and add milk

Stir in 1 tsp sugar (or your preferred sweetener) while the tea is still hot so it dissolves fully. If you prefer milk tea, add 1 tbsp milk now and return to very low heat for 30 seconds—do not boil once milk is added.

Strain and finish

Using a fine-mesh strainer, pour the tea into a cup to remove tea leaves and spices. Taste and adjust sweetness or milk to preference.

If serving black without milk, add a lemon wedge to the cup or squeeze a little lemon for brightness. Offer extra sweetener on the side. Serve immediately while hot.