Masala Chai

1/2 cinnamon stick

6 whole cardamom pods

4 whole cloves

3 whole black peppercorns

2 cups water

1 cup milk

Sugar to taste

3 tsps. black tea

1 Lightly bruise the spices in a bowl with a large metal spoon.

2. Heat the water in a small saucepan, add the spices and bring to a gentle simmer for 8 minutes.

3. Add the milk and sugar to taste, stir, then bring to a simmer again briefly.

4. Add the black tea, stir, turn off the heat and let it all steep for a couple of minutes.

5. Strain, and serve with a cinnamon stick for stirring.