We have more hot days predicted for next week. A glass or mug of easy* iced chai tea and a peaceful sitting space might just cultivate a relaxing moment or two.
Here's how I do it:
- I make 12 ounces of very strong black tea, let it cool, and make it into ice cubes. (Yes, this takes a little time but it so worth the effort. Using plain water ice cubes just dilutes the chai tea flavor.
- Put 4 chai ice cubes in your blender.
- Add 1/2 to 2/3 cups full fat milk from some sweet pasture raised, lactating animal (or your favorite nut/seed milk)
- 1/2 to 1 tsp. chai spice mix - see below
- 1/4 to 1/2 tsp. real vanilla extract
- 1 tsp. local, raw honey
- optional pinch of black pepper
- Blend into a frothy liquid and pour into a wide mouth, pint ball canning jar or some other acceptable, glass receptacle.
- Enjoy!
- Double or triple to share with a friend or two.
*I say easy because making traditional hot chai is a process that simmers the whole herbs and spices; not the below ground blend I am suggesting you mix up and have handy for easy iced chai making. In a jar I put: (keep in mind these are all approximate measures and proportions based upon the strength of the spice flavor.)
- 2 tbsp. cinnamon
- 1 tbsp. cardamom
- 1 tbsp. ginger
- 1-2 tsp. nutmeg
- 1 tsp. cloves
- 1-2 tsp. star anise
I make a batch of this and keep it in an 8 oz. ball jam jar. I also use it in cooler weather to whip up an easy hot chai tea.
