Masala Chai Reduction

Strong masala chai reduced to a syrup-strength base — cardamom, clove, ginger, and black tea concentrated for sours and highballs.

Ingredients

• Water2 cups
• Black Tea4 tablespoons
• Cardamom Pods4 each
• Whole Cloves3 each
• Cinnamon Stick1 each
• Sliced Ginger1 tablespoon
• Sugar1 cup

Directions

Simmer 2 cups water with 4 tbsp black tea, 4 crushed cardamom pods, 3 cloves, a cinnamon stick, and sliced ginger for 10 minutes. Strain, stir in 1 cup sugar, and reduce slightly. Cool and bottle.

Notes

Brew the chai very strong, then reduce with sugar so a half-ounce carries real spice. The spice mix is yours to tune.