Kazakhstan: Chai Tea

Homemade chai tea in my mug. Incense burning. Autumn in the air. Heaven.

This chai from Kazakhstan is not the cinnamon/clove-heavy chai you may be used to. However, it's simple and fresh and will give you the same cozy feel. 

Serves 4-6

Ingredients:

6 cups water

8 cardamom pods

2 teaspoons fennel seeds

2 tablespoons loose black tea

2 cups milk

Honey or sugar to taste (optional)

Step 1: Combine water, cardamom, fennel and tea in a saucepan.

Step 2: Bring to just below a boil and then reduce heat to a simmer.

Step 3: Simmer for at least 10 minutes.

Step 4: Stir in milk and continue to heat until hot.

Step 5: Stain and distribute to mugs. Add honey or sugar to taste.