A rich, steaming cup of spice infused Hot Chocolate Chai is the perfect lift me up on a lasy weekday morning. Brewed with strong Russian Caravan tea, this drink is sold under the guise of Black Velvet in local tea parlours.
3teaspoonsblack tea leaves(use Russian Caravan tea for best flavour)
1large cinnamon stick
2whole pods of star anise
3cupsboiling water
cocoa powderfor serving
Instructions
Combine all ingredients for chai in a teapot. Brew for 5 minutes. Strain and set aside. Reserve the star anise and cinnamon.
In a milk pan (I use a Reiss enamel pan and it is perfect!), heat milk and cream on medium. When the milk starts foaming at the edges, add the star anise, cinnamon and hot chocolate powder. Add a cup of the strained tea. Simmer, stirring gently and constantly for about 5 minutes until hot and steamy.
Pour in large mugs or glasses, dust with cocoa powder and serve immediately.
Notes
This tea can be made in advance and simply reheated in the microwave.
Russian Caravan tea can be substituted with Orange Pekoe, Assam or Irish Breakfast.