Cozy Chai

Nothing says cozy on a cloudy Sunday afternoon like a warm cup of homemade chai. This recipe was inspired by my addiction to Starbuck’s Chai Lattes and Maria Noel Groves' Nettle-Oat Chai recipe.

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Did you know that holding a warm cup of tea actually encourages kindness to others?

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Also, depending on your choice of ingredients, using quality herbs in tea can balance out your emotions, replenish nutrients, aid in absorption and digestion, and detox your body.

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The blend of nettles, oats, and oat straw makes this tea rich in calcium, magnesium, silica, B vitamins, and iron. While the touch of ashwagandha and licorice root support the nervous system by relieving anxiety and tension, and decreasing inflammation throughout the body. This is also caffeine free but, allows for a boost of natural energy.

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• 2 tsp nettles

• 1 tsp oat straw

• 2 tsp rolled oats

• pinch of licorice root

• 1 tsp ashwagandha root

• pinch of nutmeg

• 6 whole cloves

• 3 cardamom pods

• 2 cinnamon sticks

• 2 whole star anise

• nut milk of choice

• maple syrup

• pinch of powdered ginger

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Combine all ingredients with two cups of filtered water and bring to a boil. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes. Strain into your favorite mug.

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For frothy milk I combined homemade almond milk, a pinch of powdered ginger, and a splash of maple syrup into a blender. Pour over warm strained tea and enjoy. (You can also use a milk frother if you have one).