An ideal drink for those cold winter trail running days or leave to cool, add ice for a refreshing summer drink. It's our go to post trail run comfort drink either out and about or enjoyed at home.
INGRIDIENTS
4 tbsp cardamom
4 tbsp cinnamon, if you have sticks use 3
2 tbsp ground ginger
3/4 tsp ground cloves (can swap for star anise)
3/4 tsp nutmeg
1/2 tsp fennel seeds (optional)
1 tsp black pepper corns (optional kick)
1-2 tbsp turmeric (optional turmeric version)
50g loose leaf black tea (can swap with rooibos or use tea bags)
This is just one way of making chai, add, subtract and amend if you don't have all the ingredients to hand.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
1 tsp of spice mix per cup
1 cup of dairy free milk, warmed
1 tbsp Maple syrup (or preferred sweetener)
METHOD
For full flavour add all of the spices to a dry pan and allow to warm through to release their flavour. Be sure not to burn as this will add bitterness. This step can be skipped to reduce the faff but the mix will not be quite as tasty.
Add all spices to blender or pestle and mortar, grind to a fine powder. Be sure to remove cardamom seeds from their pods. This is annoyingly time consuming but well essential.
Add to an airtight container and store for up to 3 months.
For the drink - add 1 tsp of spice mix to a small pan along with a small amount of water (just enough to cover spice mix) and bring to a simmer.
Next, add your preferred milk along with sweetener of choice. Continue to warm until desired temperature. Best done slowly for greater taste infusion.
Serve straight away and enjoy or add to a thermos flask ready for you post trail run.
Take a look
We try to take control of the cooking and nutrition on the majority of our trips. Healthy, delicious and plentiful homemade meals. Have a view through our retreats and adventures to see where your next trail running retreat or adventure may take you. #runawaywithus.