Bring the warm, welcoming hospitality of Sri Lanka straight into your kitchen with this soothing, aromatic spiced tea brewed with fresh Ceylon ingredients.
The Heart of Ceylon Chai
In Sri Lanka, tea (Theyi) is more than just a hot drink—it is a daily ritual of connection and comfort. By marrying robust Ceylon black tea with sweet, paper-thin layers of true Ceylon cinnamon and cracked black peppercorns, you create a complex beverage that warms both body and soul.
Ingredients You Will Need
- 2 cups filtered water
- 1 cup milk (dairy or a rich plant-based alternative like oat milk)
- 2 tbsp high-quality Ceylon black tea leaves
- 1 stick of true Ceylon cinnamon (Alba or C4 grade, gently cracked)
- 3–4 whole Sri Lankan black peppercorns, lightly crushed
- 2 small pods of green cardamom, lightly bruised
- A slice of fresh ginger (optional, for an extra kick)
- Raw honey or jaggery to taste
Step-by-Step Preparation
- Simmer the Spices: In a small saucepan, combine the water, cracked Ceylon cinnamon, crushed black pepper, cardamom pods, and ginger. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes so the essential oils infuse the water.
- Add the Tea: Stir in the Ceylon black tea leaves. Allow them to steep in the spiced water for about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Pour the Milk: Pour in your milk of choice and bring the entire mixture back to a gentle simmer, watching closely so it does not boil over. Let it meld together for another 3 minutes.
- Strain and Sweeten: Remove from heat, strain the rich brew directly into your favorite mugs, and stir in raw honey or jaggery to your preferred sweetness.
Savor the Moment
Find a cozy spot, wrap your hands around the warm mug, and enjoy the delicate, floral sweetness of true Ceylon cinnamon balancing the subtle heat of Sri Lankan pepper.