Healing Chai

Method

1. Lightly crush the cardamom pods and peppercorns with the flat side of a knife or a mortar and pestle — you want them cracked open, not powdered.
2. Add the water and all the spices (cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, ginger, peppercorns, fennel, star anise) to a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a low simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add the tea bags or loose tea. Simmer for 3-5 minutes (longer for a stronger brew).
4. Add the milk (if using) and heat through — don't boil.
5. Strain through a fine-mesh strainer into mugs. Let cool to a drinkable temperature, then stir in honey to taste.
6. *Dry spice blend (make ahead):**