Relax and enjoy a delicious cup of chai tea with friends.

Chai Tea

14 cardamom pods

4 1/2 cups water
1 1/2 cups milk
3 (3-inch) sticks of cinnamon, broken into pieces
6 whole cloves
2 tablespoons black tea leaves
Granulated sugar to sweeten as desired

1. Using the flat side of large knife, crush cardamom pods to expose seeds.
2. In saucepan, bring water, milk, cardamom pods, cinnamon and cloves to boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add tea leaves and remove from heat; cover and let steep for 5 minutes. Strain and serve hot. Sweeten with sugar as desired.

Makes 6 servings.