Tea Recipe

Boil water with spices

Pour 4 cups of cold water into a small saucepan. Add crushed cardamom pods and sliced ginger if using. Bring water to a rolling boil over medium-high heat (about 5–7 minutes) so the aromatics infuse the water.

Add tea

Reduce heat to low and add 2 tsp loose black tea (or 4 tea bags). Let the tea simmer gently for 3–4 minutes for a standard-strength brew; simmer 5 minutes for stronger tea. Stir once to ensure leaves are submerged.

For milk tea

If making milk tea, add 1 cup whole milk and 2 tsp sugar to the simmering tea. Increase heat slightly and bring mixture back to a gentle simmer for 1–2 minutes, watching carefully to avoid boiling over. Taste and adjust sweetness, adding more sugar or honey to taste.

For lemon or plain tea

If making lemon/plain tea without milk, remove the pan from heat after the tea has brewed. Stir in sugar or honey to taste while the tea is hot so it dissolves easily. For lemon tea, add a wedge of lemon to each cup when serving; do not add lemon to milk tea (it will curdle).

Place a fine mesh strainer over a teapot or directly over teacups. Pour the brewed tea through the strainer to remove tea leaves and spices. Divide between 4 cups. Garnish with mint leaves if desired and serve immediately.