I really enjoy the flavor of chai.  At least, what we here in the U.S. call chai.

In India, chai is tea.  Although there are some variations, the basic components are the same – usually a black tea base, whole milk, spices, and a sweetener of white sugar.  Cardamom is the most common ingredient used as a spice, but every family has a blend to suit its tastes.  In the same way, here in the U.S., spices can be adjusted in a homemade chai spice to suit individual tastes.

That is what I decided to do.  It took me quick a bit of experimentation on a recent snow day to come up with my own favorite combination of spices.  I used Penzeys brand spices to make my mix because they are so very flavorful, but you can use whatever you have in your cabinet.

Since I try my best not to eat processed foods (especially with the beginning of a new year), my motivation was to come up with a chai spice to use as a change up for my almond milk.  I will use this in warm almond milk, adding a small amount of honey as a sweetener –  if I am in a really decadent mood!  For a mug of heated milk, I use ½ teaspoon of my homemade spice.

This spice can be used to flavor tea, quick breads, smoothies, etc.

I hope I have inspired you to come up with your own chai spice mix.  You can try my combination and adjust the ingredients to your own taste!

Thanks for stopping by!  Remember to take pleasure in simple things, Jackie