The ultimate masala tea
Makes 1 large cupful
For me this is the ultimate drink. It is what women across India make whenever they need a break or have friends, guests or family coming over. It offers solace and comfort and is invigorating and relaxing all at the same time. I drink a cup every morning without fail. No other tea does it for me anymore; it is masala tea or coffee, basically. It is truly addictive.
Heat the water and milk up with the spices and ginger. Once it comes to a boil, turn the heat down and cook over a low-moderate flame for 15 minutes. Be careful as the milk easily rises and boils over. If this is about to happen, turn the heat down and take the pan off the heat for a few seconds.
Once reduced to a large cupful, add the teabag and let it brew for 1 minute or more if you like strong tea. Strain into your cup and add sugar to taste.
350ml water
125ml milk
5 black peppercorns
5 good or 10 average-quality green cardamom pods
Small pinch of green fennel seeds
Small shard of cinnamon
8g ginger, roughly sliced
Slightest pinch of salt
1 tea bag (I use a common black tea blend)
Sugar to taste