Rose, Cardamom & Ginger Chai

A recipe I came up with intuitively as a more cooling option to the body. It was a warmer day but I still wanted a lovely spiced chai, so instead of all the usual heating spices like cinnamon, clove etc, I sprinkled in some rose petals, lots of cardamom and fresh ginger (I can’t have a chai without ginger).

According to Ayurveda, rose is soothing, cooling and brings peace to the heart – excellent for fiery Pitta.

Cardamom is excellent for balancing the effects of caffeine, protecting against oxidative stress and for helping your bod handle insulin better.
Ginger stokes the digestive fire and supports circulation.

How to make one cup
200ml water
1-2 tsp dried rose petals
6-8 crushed cardamom pods
2cm piece of fresh ginger, roughly chopped
1 tsp black tea or 1 teabag
200 ml milk
1 tsp jaggery or coconut sugar (to taste)

1. Add the water and spices to a tiny saucepan and simmer for 3-5 mins.
2. Add the milk and black tea and bring to a boil then reduce and simmer for 3-5 mins. The longer you let it simmer, the better the flavour!
3. Sweeten to taste then strain into your favourite cup. Enjoy with your full attention.