Homemade Vanilla Chai Brew
As we transition into Autumn, there is a call to head inwards - both within ourselves and in our homes.
Creating a space and lifestyle that is slow, cosy, heart-warming and nourishing - these are the moments I cherish! It's such a delicious time of year to reflect, take some time for yourself and nurture moments with loved ones. One of my favourite ways to decompress and relish these precious moments after a long day or week is to brew up a batch of cosy homemade Chai.
An infusion of my favourite aromatic spices blended with my favourite creamy plant milk (Oat milk club for life!) - you really can't go wrong!
This chai blend is cost effective, easy to make, deliciously warming and you can easily make a batch to store in the fridge for another rainy day.
Black Tea
- I love to use black tea bags (Loose leaf is fine too!)
Spices
- Think cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, star anise - you could also use ginger and nutmeg to spice things up.
Vanilla Bean - My favourite part! The ultimate way to take your chai to the next level.
Sweetener
- Use your favourite liquid sweetener - I love honey, organic maple or agave! If you're wanting to opt for a sugar free version, some natural stevia would be perfect.
Plant Milk
- I am currently obsessed with oat milk - it is creamy, nutty and full bodied making it the partner in crime for coffee and chai! My second favourite by far is coconut.
Let's not wait! Here's how to make it..
Homemade Vanilla Chai Brew
Makes 3-4 Cups
Ingredients:
- 2-3 cinnamon sticks
- 10 cardamom pods, slightly crushed
- 6 whole cloves
- 2 star anise
- 8 black tea bags
- 3 cups water
- 2 tsp vanilla bean extract
- 2 tbsp sweetener (maple syrup, honey or agave) to taste
- 2 cups dairy free milk of choice, warmed (oat, coconut, soy or almond)
Method:
- Combine the cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, star anise, black tea bags and water in a medium saucepan. Bring to the boil.
- Remove from the heat after a few minutes and allow to simmer & cool slightly for 10-15 minutes. By ensuring it does not boil for too long you will avoid the spices becoming bitter.
- Add the vanilla bean, warm dairy free milk of your choice and sweetener. Mix thoroughly or pour into a blender.
- Blend on high for 30 seconds or until nice and frothy. Pour into your favourite mug and enjoy! (Ensure the mixture is not too boiling before blending and the blender lid is secure and sealed!)
However - please feel free to completely skip the blender and pour into your favourite mug and enjoy immediately for a froth-free version. If you have a milk frother or steamer handy, this would also be perfect! - Store any left overs in a glass jar or bottle for up to 4-5 days in the fridge. (It is also fabulous enjoyed over ice!)
I hope you love this Chai as much as I do! Chai is a firm favourite in the Husband household and a great drink to have on hand for when the cravings strike. I love to make an extra batch up for the week and keep it in the fridge for a later date.
Until next time,
