Homemade Chai Recipe for Cold Extremities
Cold extremities are an indication of poor circulation and can impact the function and ability to heal our whole body. Spices like ginger, cinnamon and clove can stimulate circulation, increasing our ability to get blood to the extremities. One of my favorite ways to warm up is a spicy cup of Chai. This is a traditional Indian drink that has become a staple of barista culture in the West. You can get this drink at just about any coffee shop. Making it at home not only gives a sense of empowerment with personal health, but also enables you to vary the ingredients, sweetener, and milk choice. It’s also a great seasonal drink to be able to offer guests.
Most of the ingredients can be found in your pantry or local spice section. If you have trouble finding them, try and Indian grocery.
Ingredients:
8 oz of water
1 tsp fennel seed
1 inch piece of cinnamon stick
- option to use 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
3-5 whole cloves, for desired spice level
1 inch piece of ginger, skin removed and minced
2 cardamom pods, remove skin and grind seeds
- option to use 1/4 tsp pre ground cardamom
1 tea bag
- black tea is traditional, but could be a green tea, yerba mate, rooibos or other herbal tea (ideas: nettle, dandelion, burdock, etc.)
4-8 oz of milk - to desired taste. More milk will yield a milder chai, less will make a spicier one. I usually add milk until a light brown color is attained
- substitute milks: oat, almond, hemp, coconut, etc.
Desired sweetener to taste: honey, maple syrup, coconut sugar, agave, etc.
* option to add a pinch of Cayenne to crank the spice up
** option to add 1/4 tsp of Turmeric for anti-inflammatory benefit
Directions:
Add water, spices, and tea to a small sauce pan over med-high heat. Cook until boiling then add milk and continue to cook at med heat until tea returns to a boil. Once boiling, turn off heat. Either strain immediately or let steep for a few more minutes. Strain and add sweetener (or not).
I hope you enjoy your personalized homemade chai as much as I do!
