The process for making chai at home is surprisingly simple: To make 1 cup, combine 3/4 cup water and your spices (see suggested amounts, then adjust to taste) in a small saucepan and bring to a boil. Lower the heat and simmer for a few minutes until fragrant. Add 3/4 cup milk and 2 teaspoons tea leaves (or 2 tea bags) and simmer for another minute, then remove from heat. Steep for 2 minutes, then pour through a sieve into your cup. Add honey or sugar to taste.

In India, chai is prepared by a tea vendor, called a chai wallah. The drink is served in small glasses.

The word masala means a mixture of spices, and the word chai means tea.

Sugar is often used to sweeten chai, but honey can provide more depth of flavor.

Chai is made with milk in India, but any type of milk will work.

Loose black tea is best, but tea bags can be used in a pinch. Assam or Ceylon tea is the most common.

An Indian beverage made from black tea, milk and spices, chai is a fantastic way to get cozy on a chilly day. There are as many chai recipes as there are curry recipes—the spices are mixed according to taste, and can vary from day to day. Masala chai can be made with any combination of spices, but green cardamom pods and fresh ginger provide the base notes.