Dirty Chai Latte

My doubts about whether the winter cold would ever hit have been eliminated. It's a great night to stay home, bake something warm and yummy, and cuddle.

I love Chai in the winter--it's so hearty and fulfilling with its cinnamon and cardamon. This Chai recipe is great because it can go either way--add a shot of espresso if you're planning on an exciting night or a shot of bourbon if you want things slow and lazy. Or leave it plain. It's delicious.

Dirty Chai Latte (makes 2)
12 oz. whole milk
1 cinnamon stick
2 cardamom pods
5 peppercorns, pink or black
1 1/2 inch chunk of fresh ginger, peeled, and partially smashed with the flat of a large knife
2 Tbs. honey
2 sachets of black tea (or two scoops of loose leaf black tea)
2 shots of either espresso or bourbon

Lightly crush the spices together – you can do this in a large mortar and pestle, or by putting them in a small, closed bag and crushing them with a rolling pin. Put the spices and the milk in a saucepan and bring to just a boil. Turn off the heat and allow to steep 8 minutes.
Add the black tea and allow to steep 5 more minutes. Strain the milk. Return it to the saucepan and gently rewarm the milk, if needed. Stir in the honey.
Split the spiced milk between two mugs and add a shot of espresso or bourbon to each. Enjoy!