Spiced Tea Spicy Chai

Ingredients

• 4 cupswater
• 2 tspblack tea leaves
• 4cardamom pods — crushed
• 1cinnamon stick
• 4cloves
• 2 tbspsugar — or to taste

Method

1. Start by placing a medium saucepan on the stove and pour in 4 cups of water. Add 4 cardamom pods, 1 cinnamon stick, and 4 cloves to the water. Turn the heat to high and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. The spices will release their oils, and you'll notice a fragrant aroma filling your kitchen.
2. Once the water reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and add 2 teaspoons of black tea leaves to the saucepan. Allow the tea to steep in the simmering water for about 3 to 5 minutes. You are looking for the liquid to become a deep, rich color and the aroma to be robust and inviting.
3. After the tea has steeped and reached the desired color and fragrance, place a fine-mesh strainer over a teapot or directly over serving cups. Carefully pour the tea through the strainer to catch the spices and tea leaves, ensuring a smooth drink.
4. Add 2 tablespoons of sugar to the strained tea, stirring well until the sugar completely dissolves. Taste and adjust the sweetness if necessary, keeping in mind that the sugar should enhance the spices without overpowering them.
5. Serve the spiced tea hot in cups, appreciating the warm and inviting aroma. This is the moment where the blend of spices and tea should feel balanced and comforting, a perfect reflection of Ethiopian hospitality.