Spiced Chai Elixir Concentrate
After countless attempts to recreate the perfect Masala Chai, I've finally formulated a rich and aromatic Spiced Chai Elixir Concentrate that captures the essence of traditional chai. This blend of invigorating spices and robust black tea creates a harmonious balance of warmth and flavor. Adjust the spice level or sweetness according to your personal preference and enjoy a delightful cup of chai anytime. Whether you're looking for a cozy drink or an energizing boost, this concentrate is perfect for any occasion. Make a batch, and savor the goodness throughout the week!
8
Servings
8
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
Water
7 cups (none)
Dried ginger chunks
2 tablespoons (or 1 inch fresh ginger, sliced)
Whole cloves
10-15 (none)
Star anise pods
1/4 (none)
Cinnamon sticks
3 inches (broken into smaller pieces)
Black peppercorns
1/2 tablespoon (none)
Cardamom seeds
1/2 tablespoon (lightly crushed)
Black tea leaves
2 tablespoons (none)
Brown sugar
5 tablespoons (or honey, to taste)
Vanilla extract
1 teaspoon (none)
Milk
to taste (hot, or evaporated for a creamier version)
Instructions
1
Begin by gathering fresh spices from your local bulk foods store for the best flavor and value.
2
In a medium-large saucepan, bring 7 cups of water to a rolling boil.
3
Once boiling, add the ginger, cloves, star anise, cinnamon sticks, black peppercorns, and cardamom seeds for a delightful spice infusion.
4
Allow the spices to boil together for 5 minutes to release their flavors.
5
After simmering, stir in the black tea leaves and remove the saucepan from heat.
6
Let the mixture steep for an additional 8 minutes for optimal flavor extraction.
7
Strain the chai concentrate into a glass container, discarding the solids.
8
Add brown sugar (or honey, if preferred) and vanilla extract to the warm concentrate, stirring until dissolved.
9
To serve, pour the chai concentrate into your mug, filling it 2/3 full, and top with your choice of hot milk for a creamy finish. Adjust spices to taste if desired, steeping additional spices directly in your cup for enhanced flavor.
10
Store any remaining chai concentrate in the refrigerator for up to 7 days for your daily chai fix!
Nutrition Information
0g
Fat
0g
Protein
1.5g
Sugar
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Spiced Chai Elixir Concentrate?
It is a rich and aromatic blend of invigorating spices and robust black tea designed to capture the essence of traditional Masala Chai.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe makes approximately 8 servings.
What are the primary ingredients in the concentrate?
The ingredients include water, dried ginger, cloves, star anise, cinnamon sticks, black peppercorns, cardamom seeds, black tea leaves, brown sugar, and vanilla extract.
How much water is required for this recipe?
You will need 7 cups of water brought to a rolling boil.
How should the ginger be prepared?
You can use 2 tablespoons of dried ginger chunks or 1 inch of fresh ginger, sliced.
What is the boiling time for the spices?
The spices should boil together for 5 minutes to release their flavors.
How long should the black tea steep?
The tea leaves should steep for 8 minutes after removing the saucepan from the heat.
Should I boil the tea leaves with the spices?
No, you should stir in the black tea leaves and remove the saucepan from the heat before steeping.
How do I serve the chai concentrate?
Pour the concentrate into a mug until it is 2/3 full, then top it with your choice of hot milk.
Can I use honey instead of brown sugar?
Yes, honey is a suggested alternative for sweetening the concentrate.
How long can the concentrate be stored?
The concentrate can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.
What type of container is recommended for storage?
It is recommended to strain and store the concentrate in a glass container.
What should I do with the whole spices after steeping?
You should strain the concentrate and discard the solids.
How can I make a creamier cup of chai?
Using evaporated milk instead of regular milk will provide a creamier version.
How much vanilla extract is used?
The recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
Are the cardamom seeds used whole?
The recipe recommends that the 1/2 tablespoon of cardamom seeds be lightly crushed.
How much star anise is needed?
The recipe uses 1/4 of a star anise pod.
What can I do if I want a stronger spice flavor in my cup?
You can steep additional spices directly in your mug for an enhanced flavor.
Is this recipe low in calories?
Yes, the concentrate itself has approximately 8 calories per serving.
How much sugar is in one serving?
There is approximately 1.5g of sugar per serving.
Does this recipe contain fat?
The concentrate contains 0g of fat.
What type of tea leaves should I use?
The recipe specifies 2 tablespoons of black tea leaves.
How much cinnamon is used?
The recipe uses 3 inches of cinnamon sticks, broken into smaller pieces.
Can I adjust the sweetness?
Yes, you can adjust the brown sugar or honey to your personal taste.
Are black peppercorns necessary?
Yes, 1/2 tablespoon of black peppercorns helps provide the traditional spice profile.
Where should I buy the spices for the best flavor?
The recipe suggests gathering fresh spices from a local bulk foods store for better flavor and value.
How many cloves are used in the blend?
You should use between 10 to 15 whole cloves.
Is this beverage served hot or cold?
While the instructions describe serving it with hot milk, the concentrate is stored cold and can be used for a variety of occasions.
What is the protein content?
The concentrate contains 0g of protein.
Does this contain any cholesterol?
No, the recipe information indicates 0 cholesterol.