Vegan Chai Tea

Ingredients

• 4 cups Water (Filtered water for best flavor)
• 4 teaspoons Black tea leaves (Or 4 tea bags of your choice)
• 2 sticks Cinnamon sticks (For a warm, spicy flavor)
• 6 pods Cardamom pods (Crush lightly for better infusion)
• 4 cloves Whole cloves (Adds depth to the flavor)
• 1 inch Ginger (Fresh ginger, sliced)
• 6 peppercorns Black peppercorns (For a subtle heat)
• 1 cup Coconut milk (Or any preferred plant-based milk)
• 2 tablespoons Maple syrup (For sweetness, adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract (Optional, for added flavor)

Instructions

1. 1

   In a medium saucepan, combine 4 cups of filtered water with the cinnamon sticks, crushed cardamom pods, whole cloves, sliced ginger, and black peppercorns.

2. 2

   Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.

3. 3

   Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the spices to infuse the water.

4. 4

   After 10 minutes, add the black tea leaves (or tea bags) to the saucepan and simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes, depending on how strong you like your tea.

5. 5

   Remove the saucepan from heat and strain the tea into a large pot or pitcher to remove the spices and tea leaves.

6. 6

   Stir in 1 cup of coconut milk, 2 tablespoons of maple syrup, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract (if using).

7. 7

   Heat the chai tea gently on low heat until warm, but do not bring it back to a boil.

8. 8

   Serve warm in cups, optionally garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a cinnamon stick.