Chilled Spiced Ice Tea Refresher

Ingredients

Estimated total cost: €1.44 · €0.24/serving

• 1 tsp. black peppercornsEst. price €0.03–€0.08
• 3 Tbsp. plus 1 tsp. (or more) granulated sugar or jaggeryEst. price €0.10–€0.25
• 3 cups milk or plant-based milkEst. price €0.75–€1.50
• 32 green cardamom podsEst. price €0.20–€0.50
• 1 tsp. ground gingerEst. price €0.04–€0.10
• 2 Tbsp. CTC Assam tea (such as Wagh Bakri, Red Label, Tea India, or 24 Mantra Organic)Est. price €0.30–€0.70
• 1 lb. ice (about 3 cups)Est. price €0.02–€0.10
• A mortar and pestleEst. price €0.00–€0.00

Steps

1. 1

   Begin by crushing cardamom pods coarsely using a mortar and pestle, then proceed to partially grind the seeds. Once done, transfer the mixture onto a plate. Next, grind peppercorns with the mortar and pestle until they reach a medium-coarse consistency before moving them to the same plate as the cardamom mixture.

2. 2

   Prepare a medium pot by rinsing it with water to prevent the milk from burning. In the pot, combine the milk, cardamom pods and seeds, pepper, and ginger. Place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a vigorous boil. Use a heatproof rubber spatula to scrape the sides and bottom of the pot occasionally. As foam begins to form on top, let it cook for about 20 seconds while continuing to scrape any spices sticking to the sides of the pot (if using plant-based milk that doesn't foam, cook for an additional 10 seconds after boiling). Lower the heat to maintain a gentle simmer until the foam subsides. Then increase the heat slightly to keep it at a steady low-medium level. Simmer while stirring occasionally and adjusting the heat as needed to prevent excessive foaming. The milk should take on a light tan color from absorbing all the flavors of the spices; this process should take approximately 2 minutes.

3. 3

   Combine the tea with milk in a pot and simmer the mixture, stirring occasionally and regulating the heat, until the milk turns a rich tan color and reduces by one third, approximately 4 minutes. Then, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a large measuring glass, pressing on solids using a spatula to extract all liquid. To facilitate cleaning, soak the pot in hot water promptly. The resulting chai concentrate should measure 2 cups; pour it back into the pot and simmer for an additional minute if further reduction is desired. Introduce sugar to the concentrate and stir until completely dissolved.

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• Cultural note

  The combination of spices like black peppercorns, green cardamom pods, and ground ginger in this recipe reflects the rich culinary tradition of South Asian flavors. Tea is deeply rooted in many cultures worldwide, with Assam tea being a popular choice in India.

• Seasonal note

  This Chilled Spiced Ice Tea Refresher is perfect for hot summer days when you need a refreshing drink to cool down.

• Health note

  This drink provides a good source of protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins like A and C. However, it is high in sugar and saturated fat, so it should be enjoyed in moderation.