How a Journey Through India, Qatar, and Nepal Inspired My Perfect Nepali Spiced Tea Recipe
The first time I experienced the magic of spiced tea was years ago, traveling through India and Qatar while studying yoga. In India, I was captivated by the warmth of masala chai, its symphony of bold tea and fragrant spices comforting my soul. In Qatar, I discovered another variation, just as rich and invigorating, yet with its own unique flair. Those memories lingered with me, the flavors dancing on my palate long after I returned home.
Fast forward to 2024, when I embarked on a transformative journey to Nepal. I stayed at a serene Buddhist monastery nestled in the mountains, where life moved at a meditative pace. Every day began with the monks’ simple yet profoundly flavorful spiced tea. There was something deeply grounding about sipping this tea in the monastery’s peaceful halls, surrounded by the quiet hum of prayer and the scent of incense. It wasn’t just a drink; it was a ritual.
When I returned home from Nepal, I couldn’t shake the memory of that tea. Determined to bring a piece of that tranquility into my daily life, I started searching for recipes. After experimenting with countless combinations, adjusting spices, and tweaking proportions, I finally crafted my own version—a blend inspired by my travels and perfected in my kitchen.
This Nepali spiced tea is now my go-to for reconnecting with the calming energy I found in Nepal. Every cup takes me back to those misty mornings at the monastery and the wisdom I gained from the monks’ simple way of living. It’s a labor of love and a beautiful reminder that even the smallest rituals, like making tea, can transform your day.
I hope this recipe brings a sense of warmth and mindfulness to your life, just as it has to mine.
Nepali Spiced Tea Recipe
This warming and aromatic Nepali spiced tea combines bold black tea with a blend of spices for a soothing and flavorful experience. It’s perfect for cozy mornings, afternoon tea time, or a nourishing beverage during colder weather.
Ingredients:
• 8 cups water
• 3/4 cup (or more) oat milk (or milk of your choice)
• 2 black tea bags
• 3 organic whole cloves
• 1/2-inch piece of fresh ginger, sliced or grated
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads
• 6 peppercorns
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
Instructions:
1. Boil the Water
In a large pot, bring the 8 cups of water to a rolling boil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the Black Tea
Add the black tea bags to the boiling water and reduce the heat to medium. Let the tea simmer for 5 minutes, allowing it to infuse the water with its rich flavor.
3. Incorporate the Spices
Add the cloves, ginger, cinnamon stick, saffron, peppercorns, and ground cardamom to the pot. Stir gently and let the mixture simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the spices to release their flavors.
4. Add the Oat Milk
Pour in the oat milk and stir. Continue to cook the tea for an additional 5 minutes, ensuring the milk and spices blend harmoniously with the tea.
5. Strain and Serve
Remove the pot from the heat and carefully strain the tea through a fine mesh strainer to remove the tea bags, spices, and ginger.
6. Enjoy or Store
Pour the spiced tea into mugs and enjoy it hot. Alternatively, transfer it to a thermos or hot carafe to keep warm for later.
Optional Sweetener:
For added sweetness, consider stirring in a teaspoon of honey, raw sugar, or your favorite natural sweetener to taste. I have also found it delicious to add in 1 tablespoon of honey to the whole mix while boiling.
Storage Tips:
This tea can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to preserve its flavors.
This Nepali spiced tea is not only delicious but also packed with the warming and immune-boosting properties of its spices. Perfect for sipping and savoring!
But this tea is more than just delicious; it’s also packed with health benefits:
• Boosts Immunity: The combination of ginger, cloves, and saffron provides antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to strengthen your immune system.
• Improves Digestion: Ginger and black tea are known to aid digestion, while the cardamom helps soothe the stomach.
• Relieves Stress: The warm spices, combined with the calming effects of saffron and cinnamon, create a soothing experience that reduces stress and promotes relaxation.
• Supports Heart Health: Black tea contains flavonoids that may lower cholesterol levels, while cinnamon and cloves improve circulation and reduce inflammation.
• Enhances Mood: Saffron, often referred to as the “sunshine spice,” has mood-boosting properties and may help alleviate mild depression.
• Promotes Respiratory Health: Peppercorns and ginger are excellent for clearing congestion and improving respiratory function.
• Balances Blood Sugar: Cinnamon has been shown to regulate blood sugar levels, making this tea a great addition to a balanced diet.
Written by Ashlee Sunshine
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