Chai ya Viungo

This is East African chai. We do love milk. We use lots and lots of milk. When I was a kid, I was never happy when I was given tea without lots of milk. It is part of being a true Tanzanian.

To make gourmet chai (spiced Tea) please use 4 cups of whole milk instead of low fat. Never use powdered ingredients either. Powdered ingredients is for a quick fix, but you do not get the best flavor compare to whole spices. I use whole spices when I make for my special guest.

Always use fresh ginger. Chai does not taste good with powdered ginger at all. You can use all powdered ingredients but please not for ginger.

Serves 4

Ingredients

• 4 cups of milk
• 1 cup of water
• 1 tsp. whole black peppercorn
• 1/2 tsp. of whole cloves (about 9 cloves)
• 1 long cinnamon stick (about 4 inches)
• 1 tbsp. whole cardamom pods (opened a bit)
• 1 tbsp. fresh minced ginger
• 4 tbsp. sugar or to taste
• 4 tea bags or 1½ tbsp. loose black tea leaves

Preparation

1. Mix all ingredients except tea and milk in a big pan and boil for 6-12 minutes.
2. Add milk and tea. Use medium heat so the milk won’t get scalded.
3. Boil while stirring, for 2 minutes
4. Serve hot or as iced tea.